Lipa Nessa is a sports activist, a former semi-professional footballer turned grassroots coach and National Youth Board member who, along with the Sweaty Betty Foundation, has launched a new Sports Hijab, specially redesigned to cater to those seeking to maintain modesty while engaging in physical activity.
The innovative Sports Hijab combines fashion and function, featuring hidden banding to ensure stability during active movement and offering various fastening options to match individual style preferences. All profits from the sales of the Sports Hijab, along with those from an exclusive long-sleeve Breathe Easy Top, will be donated to the Sweaty Betty Foundation. Additionally, the Foundation will annually distribute a designated number of hijabs to girls across the UK, empowering and encouraging them to embrace physical activity.
Here Lipa talks about her love for football, her collaboration with Sweaty Betty and the challenges faced by women in sports.
What sparked your interest for football? Could you elaborate on the challenges you faced and how they impacted your experiences on the field?
My sports journey began during my time in Lower School when I was around one to five years old. My parents gifted me a cartoon football, which quickly became my obsession. My interest in football led me to join the boys in playing during recess and this early exposure to physical activity strongly influenced me, sparking a lifelong love for the sport. In middle school, I became an activist when I realised there was no girls' football team. Determined to change this, I approached the head of physical education and successfully rallied enough girls to sign up, leading to the formation of our own team, and providing me with a supportive environment to continue playing.
Transitioning to high school, where a football team already existed and I enjoyed being part of a successful team, winning numerous trophies and gaining recognition for our skills. Despite my early successes, challenges arose when my appearance as a visibly Muslim woman became a focal point for discrimination. This negativity reached its peak during a football match, where opposing parents taunted me with derogatory remarks and gestures. Despite scoring the winning goal, the joy of victory was overshadowed by the hostility I faced.
Can you detail your collaboration with sweaty Betty?
Through my involvement with the Youth Sport Trust, I encountered Sweaty Betty Foundation which led me to establish a project with them, aimed at empowering young athletes like myself. During a conversation with the foundation's head, I expressed my dissatisfaction with existing sportswear options and proposed the idea of creating something unique and empowering for Muslim women athletes. Despite initial scepticism, we shared a vision for change and embarked on a journey to make it a reality. In October 2022, my belief in speaking things into existence was reaffirmed when steps were taken to turn our vision into tangible products, offering Muslim women athletes clothing that not only met their practical needs but also celebrated their identity.
Can you detail the evolution of the hijab and its unique features?
The decision to proceed to a pilot focus group in Leeds was made with young girls from diverse backgrounds being involved, in January 2023. Given the diversity in facial features among South Asians, I wanted to ensure the hijab design would flatter a variety of faces. Collaborating with the girls in Leeds and the Betty design team, we quickly sketched up ideas and after a lot of back and forth and I received the first prototype of the sports hijab in June 2023, which was an exciting moment. We went through several prototypes before settling on one, ensuring it provided proper support and comfort. In November 2023 I had my first photoshoot—a surreal experience considering I had never imagined myself in the industry.
The hijab design is unique in that it's tailored specifically for South Asian faces, which come in a wide range of appearances. It has multiple layers for better flattery and support, accommodating different hair types, including Afro hair. The addition of a pin pop button allows for customisation based on individual preferences and activities. For example, placing the button under the chin provides stability during active moments, catering to mothers, athletes, and anyone seeking coverage and empowerment—not limited to Muslim girls or women, but for all who desire to feel confidently covered.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue sports, particularly those facing cultural or societal barriers?
Recognising that you're living life for yourself and not for others is crucial. Have you ever experienced that sense of freedom and empowerment when you're out for a walk or a run? It's as if each step forward is a declaration of your agency and determination. If you choose to start today, you're taking a step toward growth and progress. But if you postpone it, you'll find yourself in the same place tomorrow. Embracing the differences we have in society is what makes us truly human. Your uniqueness is what adds richness and depth to the tapestry of humanity.
