Mostafa: The Real Yellow Jersey winner who rebuilt his life with a bike
Originally from Iran, Mostafa arrived in the UK in 2024, moving to Halifax . In Iran, he studied and worked in the field of animal science, which he aims to continue once he’s completed qualifications in English and GCSEs.
He wanted to be able to easily travel the distance between college and his accommodation, as well as going to the gym and exploring the surrounding area. However, without a bike, or the funds to buy one, he struggled to get places.
Very soon after his arrival, and through the recommendation of a friend he met in the UK, he discovered St. Augustine’s Charity, an organisation that supports refugees and people seeking asylum in Halifax. St. Augustine’s works closely with Cycling UK’s Big Bike Revival, who were able to provide him with a bicycle free of charge, to help Mostafa explore his community and stay better connected with people.
The first few months were very challenging. I arrived alone, didn’t speak English well, and had no clear direction. Meeting people at St. Augustine’s and receiving a bike helped me feel less isolated and gave me hope to start rebuilding my life
In the world of cycling, the yellow jersey is an iconic symbol of excellence. Traditionally worn by the leader of the Tour de France, it represents athletic dominance, endurance, and determination. But for Cycling UK, true cycling excellence goes beyond professional sport—it lives in communities, on everyday streets, and in people like Mostafa.
The Real Yellow Jersey award, launched to mark 10 years of The Big Bike Revival, shines a spotlight on individuals using cycling to tackle some of society’s toughest challenges—from climate change and air pollution to mental health and social exclusion.
Since childhood, I’ve always loved cycling, and it has been a part of my life. For me, cycling is not just a way to get around – it’s a source of freedom, excitement, and discovery
Since getting his bike, that passion has been reignited, and Mostafa says it has transformed his daily life. “Riding a bike gives me a sense of peace and happiness,” he says.
Mostafa was also suffering from back ache, and thought cycling would be great exercise to improve strength and fitness, as well as managing his weight. And since he began riding again, the back ache has disappeared.
Cycling has allowed Mostafa to see Halifax from a different perspective, explore its parks and connect him with his community. He has learned new routes to help him get around the city, though mostly he rides for pleasure. “Moving through the streets, passing through narrow alleys, and discovering new routes is an incredible experience,” he adds.
Mostafa feels much more connected to his surroundings now, and is enjoying finding new places.
The fresh air, the sounds of nature, and the feeling of freedom while pedalling create an unmatched experience that no other form of transport can provide.When I ride my bike, I notice details I might miss when using public transport. Seeing old streets, small local shops, and the urban atmosphere makes cycling even more enjoyable for me
He continues: “Whenever I felt anxious, low, or homesick, riding through quiet and green areas helped calm my mind. It helped me connect with my surroundings, and it was also a practical way to travel, as I didn’t have any other form of transport.”
Mostafa adds how incredibly grateful he is to St. Augustine’s for this “amazing opportunity”, which the charity was able to provide through funding from Cycling UK.
Cycling has always been a part of my life, and now I have the chance to enjoy it once again. I hope more people can experience the joy of cycling and benefit from all it has to offer
