We’re shining a spotlight on this year’s BF Honours recipients. In this feature, we speak to Akeela Mohammed, who received a Bronze Medal for work promoting fencing with Muslim Girls Fence and the wider women’s community in the South Yorkshire area and beyond.
Tell us about the work you do to support fencing…
I initially started the MGF (Muslim Girls Fence) project in Doncaster and then went on to support other groups in Bradford and Birmingham. My role has involved helping with advertising, connecting communities, and supporting the setup of new sessions to make fencing more accessible to women from diverse backgrounds.
What is your favourite memory of your time volunteering in fencing?
Seeing the excitement and confidence grow in women who had never tried fencing before has been incredible. Watching participants pick up a sword for the first time and truly enjoy themselves, especially in Doncaster when our elder Muslim ladies fenced in Doncaster Minster with non-Muslims.
What does it mean to receive the 2025 BF Honours award?
It’s such an honour to be recognised for the contribution we’ve made. The journey has been so rewarding, and it’s been great fun to be part of something that’s making a real difference in our communities.
What would you say to people considering volunteering in fencing or sport in general?
Absolutely, give it a go! Volunteering isn’t just about sport — it’s about building community, creating friendships, and being part of something bigger than yourself
BF Honours are awarded to members who have demonstrably upheld the BF values of honesty, respect and excellence, all while making a significant contribution to fencing in the UK. Awards are conferred annually and announced and presented at the AGM by the BF President, which took place this year on the 25th October.
Fencers who have represented GBR either as an individual or as a team member and have achieved a podium place in specific categories will automatically be recommended for an appropriate award.
The BF Honours are separate from the BF Community Awards, which are currently open to nominations. The nomination deadline for the Community Awards is midnight on 14th December 2025. More info can be found here.
Click here for more information about the BF Honours, including past recipients.
Don’t miss the latest news. Subscribe to our weekly summary email, The Fencing Digest, featuring the previous week’s latest news and announcements. Sign up here.
