Introducing: Phil Dobson

From: London

Lives: South London

Social: @phild0bson

Club/ Team: upCycle

Tell us about yourself.

I’m the founder of upCYCLE LDN, a Brixton-based organisation established to empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds through cycling, practical skills development, and mentoring. I used to work in marketing, but honestly, I hated it. I’ve always loved cycling, and when lockdown hit, it felt like the perfect moment to reset and reprioritise. I knew I wanted to do something more meaningful, to work with young people, especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds who often face barriers to accessing opportunities. After attending a couple of Black Lives Matter protests, I felt even more compelled to take action. That’s when the idea for upCYCLE was born: a way to connect cycling, personal development, and social change.

What do you love about cycling?

There are many things I love about cycling, but what I love most is that it’s the best way to get around London — no question. I live in Leyton and commute to Brixton 2-3 times a week, and on the other days, I'm usually going to a meeting or a class in Central. It gives you freedom, independence, and time to clear your head. I used to commute on the Tube every day before lockdown and I honestly don't know how I did it. But beyond all that, I love how cycling rewards consistency and effort. There’s no shortcut; you get out what you put in. It’s a level playing field where hard work really pays off.

There’s also a strong sense of community in cycling, whether it’s riding with friends or taking on big adventures. Some of my favourite moments have been on the bike: completing the Traka 200 in Catalonia, bikepacking the Pennine Rally, following the Tour through France with my Dad and cycling the same roads as the pros, and I’ve got a 1000km fundraising ride around Rwanda lined up later this year. It’s adventure, connection, and growth all rolled into one.

What barriers have you faced in cycling?

When I first moved to London in 2019, cycling didn’t feel accessible at all. I didn’t see people who looked like me on bikes or in cycling spaces, and that lack of representation really stuck with me. It made it harder to feel like I belonged or that there was a place for me in the cycling community.

Things have changed a lot since then. I’ve seen so many amazing clubs, brands and organisations step up and make a real effort to diversify cycling and make it more inclusive. There’s still a long way to go, but it’s been inspiring to watch that shift and be part of it through upCYCLE. Now, there’s real momentum, and that’s something I want to keep pushing forward.

Why were you interested in contributing?

I want to be a positive example for young people, to show them that cycling isn’t just a hobby, it can be a powerful tool for personal and professional development. It teaches resilience, discipline, and confidence. Being part of the Cycling Culture Club community is a way for me to give back, share my story, and hopefully inspire others, 

Your fondest memory on the bike

One of my favourite memories is from last Summer, when me and my Dad hired a Campervan and travelled the length of France, following the Tour. We spent a couple of days at the foot of the Pyrenees and took on the Col du Tourmalet together. The weather was brutal - rain, wind, everything. At one point, I had to drop him just to try and warm up and make it to the top. I felt bad but I made sure there was a hot cup of tea waiting for him back at the campervan! It was tough, but it’s a ride I’ll never forget.