Introducing: Shuhena Islam

Welcome to CCC Introduces, our series spotlighting our amazing community of contributors.

A warm welcome today to Shuhena Islam, joining our roster of diverse contributors. Shu is the lawyer turned cyclist advocating to get more women on bikes and to encourage those women to do more on two wheels. In 2024, she bikepacked solo through China, and we can't wait to tell that story on our site.

From: UK/Bangladesh

Lives: London

Instagram: @cycling_shu

Tell us about yourself

I’m Shuhena. I trained as a corporate and finance lawyer and discovered cycling in my late twenties. I learned to ride as an adult through a Muslim women’s cycling club, and later found road cycling on the Al Qudra track in Dubai. That’s where I fell in love with the sport. I joined a club and later became more visible through the Rapha women’s campaign. Over the last five years, I’ve worked with multiple cycling brands.

What do you love about cycling

I love the freedom. I love that I can cycle across entire countries, including Japan and Java in Indonesia. I love bikepacking and the distance my legs can carry me on long trips. I’m good at problem-solving and logistics, which is why I’ve slept everywhere while travelling — mosques, strangers’ homes, and internet cafés. I also love climbing. The first time I rode Tour de France climbs and saw the pro peloton, I felt pure joy. Later that year I summited Mont Ventoux, and that’s when my love for climbing really began.

What barriers have you faced in cycling

Cycling isn’t a very inclusive sport and can be extremely privileged. Entry-level bikes and kit are expensive and restrictive, which limits access. Confidence is another barrier — many people don’t ride because they don’t feel they belong. That’s why getting more women on bikes matters so much to me.

Why were you interested in contributing?

Miles has created a platform that allows people to connect in a meaningful way. I want to share my experiences honestly and be part of open conversations about diversity and how we create safer spaces in cycling. I’m also interested in raising ambition in the sport, particularly for younger riders.

If you’re comfortable, tell us about your personal experience of diversity in cycling

I’ve experienced Islamophobia, racism, and hate — following the Rapha campaign, on Strava, and within my own club. It made me feel very alone and disillusioned. I found strength in my bike and in riding, and that’s what kept me going.

Your fondest memory on the bike

Entering China by bike was one of the most powerful experiences I’ve ever had.

Summiting Mount Fuji on my second attempt — after failing on my birthday, during my period, in terrible weather — was unforgettable.

Reaching the Eiffel Tower in memory of my dad, having a breakdown there, and coming to terms with my grief was a really powerful moment that I’ll always carry with me.

Where are you from:

British, with Bangladeshi heritage.

Where do you live:

London.

Are you part of a Club/team:

Islington CC.

---

Do you want to explore more inspirational stories, check out all of our contributor bios here