Greater Victoria cyclists to mark 20 years supporting African grandmothers

Published 1:00 pm Friday, July 3, 2026

Victoria Grandmothers aged 55 and older are gearing up to take part in a five-week cycling fundraiser this summer as Victoria Grandmothers for Africa celebrates the 20th anniversary of its annual Cycle Tour.

The fundraiser runs from Aug. 9 to Sept. 13 and supports grandmother-led organizations in Africa through the Stephen Lewis Foundation’s Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign. Collected funds will help women caring for children and families affected by AIDS.

Organizers say they’re hoping for $200,000 this year while honouring the legacy of Stephen Lewis, whose advocacy inspired the campaign. Lewis died in March of this year.

Since 2006, Victoria Grandmothers for Africa has raised more than $2.5 million through cycling events, auctions, craft sales, African dinners and other community fundraisers. What started with a small group of women has now grown to 166 members.

Organizers said residents can expect participants to ride on road bikes, e-bikes, stationary bikes, or even a penny-farthing during the tour. Cyclists will choose their own distance, riding individually or in groups on roads and trails throughout the Greater Victoria region. An optional Campbell River-to-Victoria ride is scheduled for Sept. 11 to 13.

Jane Carroll, who rides an e-bike, said cycling has become an important part of her life. “When I’m out on the bike, I’m just so happy. Everything is possible,” Carroll said. “We all have our griefs, and my friendship with these extraordinary women lifts me up.”

For Laurie Wilson, the cause became personal after meeting grandmothers from Africa supported through the campaign.

“It was the heart connection that finally got me,” Wilson said. “Now I admire them so much; they sing and dance with so much joy.”

Long-time participant Christine Scott said the fundraiser offers an opportunity to challenge herself while helping others.

“It was an opportunity for me to push myself, but at the same time raise significant money for less privileged grandmothers in Africa,” Scott said.