The focus group conducted in Zaragoza by VALS brought together professionals from diverse organizations working with refugee and migrant women—including those involved in prostitution or trafficking situations—as well as representatives of entities offering outdoor activities, non-formal education, or psychosocial support. The participants reflected on the role of outdoor activities, sport, and cultural outings as meaningful tools to promote well-being, empowerment, and integration.
The session offered rich insights into the transformative role of nature, sport, and cultural outings in the empowerment and integration of migrant women.
“They had been locked in a room 24/7… suddenly they start to discover the city, create a support network, and reconnect with who they were before.”
Participants highlighted that access to public spaces—museums, parks, green areas—can support identity reconstruction and a sense of belonging during the migration grief process.
“Some had lived in Zaragoza for over two years and had never been to the Parque del Agua… and they loved it.”
Sport and movement also emerged as powerful entry points for inclusion and confidence-building:
“Eight out of ten women who don’t know how to ride a bike in Spain are migrants… Learning to ride can be a gateway to many other things.”
There was consensus on the need to combine emotional support, practical skill-building, and cultural validation, particularly for women facing social isolation, trauma, or survival stressors.
Participating organizations:
Cicleria
Fundación Picarral
Cepaim
Medicos Mundi
Kamusa
Colectivo 21
