How cycling helped Ukrainian migrant Elina rebuild confidence in Scotland
For Elina, cycling had always been a source of freedom and joy. Growing up in Dnipro, Ukraine, she loved riding her bike, relishing the independence it gave her. However, due to the conflict in her home country, she found herself in Scotland, far from the familiar streets she once cycled.
Determined to regain the confidence she once had, Elina connected with our Connecting Communities programme through the Inverclyde Bothy, a project that helps people become more active and connected through cycling, wheeling and walking.
I had always enjoyed cycling, but coming to a new country, everything felt different—especially riding on the left side of the road. I wanted to feel safe and confident again
Through a partnership with Your Voice, a local organisation supporting people new to Scotland, the bothy offered free social bike rides. Elina eagerly signed up, excited to rediscover the joy of cycling in her new home.
From hesitant to confident
At the start of the programme, Elina passed a quick pre-ride assessment and joined a group ride. However, it became clear that a little extra support would help her feel more confident on the road.
The group rides were wonderful, but I knew I needed help with certain things—signalling, road positioning, and getting used to riding on the left side. The Bothy team suggested some extra sessions, and I was so grateful for their support
Over the course of three one-to-one confidence-building sessions, Elina worked on improving her road positioning, learning clear signalling and observation skills, and adjusting to the unfamiliar experience of cycling on the left side of the road.
Each session built on the last, with Elina eagerly asking questions about the Highway Code and absorbing every piece of advice.
Every session felt like progress. The team was so patient, and they explained everything in a way that made sense. I could feel myself improving, and that gave me confidence
A sense of belonging
By the end of the training, Elina was ready to take part in more social rides. She no longer felt nervous – she felt uplifted.
The rides became something I really looked forward to. The Bothy created such a welcoming and friendly space, and the positive energy from everyone was contagious. I always left feeling happier and more confident
Beyond cycling, the programme also helped reduce Elina’s sense of isolation, giving her a new community in Scotland.
It wasn’t just about riding a bike – it was about meeting people, sharing experiences, and feeling like I belonged
A bike of her own
As part of its work with Community Tracks, a local charity that rebuilds and donates bikes, the bothy helped Elina receive her own bicycle.
I was so overwhelmed when I got my bike. My old bike was left behind in Ukraine, and the bicycle shop I used to go to was destroyed. Getting a bike again felt like a piece of home had been returned to me
With her new bike, Elina was able to make short local trips to the shops, giving her greater independence and mobility.
But she didn’t stop there—she wanted to learn how to take care of her bike too.
Having a bike again made me want to learn how to look after it. That’s why I took part in the bothy’s free bike maintenance workshop. Now, I know how to fix a puncture and check my brakes. It makes me feel even more confident knowing I can take care of my own bike
Thanks to our Connecting Communities programme and the support of local organisations, Elina has regained her confidence on a bike, become part of a welcoming cycling community, received her own bike for independent travel, and learned maintenance skills to keep cycling worry free.
For Elina, cycling has become more than just a way to get around – it’s a symbol of freedom, confidence, and a fresh start in a new country.
Cycling has given me back my independence. I feel stronger, happier, and more connected. I’m excited to keep riding and exploring more places!
Elina’s story is just one example of how Connecting Communities is empowering people through cycling, building confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. To discover more inspiring stories of people across Scotland whose lives have been transformed by cycling, explore our impact page.
