Key Points
- A group started by two young migrants in Melbourne promotes mental well-being, physical activity and social connection through hiking.
- Loneliness affects one in four Australians, but research shows time spent outdoors can enhance mental and physical health.
- 'It’s not just about hiking; it’s about creating connections,' group co-founder Najam UsSaqib says.
When Patricia Fiorini came to Australia from Brazil in 2018 on an employee-sponsored visa, she initially feared living in a new country with limited connections.
Years later, after the end of a long-term relationship, she again began to question whether she truly belonged.
Then she found a hiking group on Facebook that became her "lifeline".
"Joining the Hiking Tribe helped me connect with the local community as an adult immigrant in a new country," she told SBS Urdu.
Patricia Fiorini says hiking has helped her meet people from diverse backgrounds. Credit: Patricia Fiorini
The group meets every weekend and organises camping trips every two months, as well as regular cycling, badminton and rock-climbing outings.
"Members are constantly learning new things, sharing experiences and, most importantly, respecting each other’s cultures as we get to know one another," Fiorini said.
'A welcoming community'
The group — co-founded by Pakistani migrants Najam UsSaqib, 45, and Syed Hassan, 34 — brings together participants from more than 37 nationalities who speak at least 32 languages.
Najam UsSaqib (right) and Syed Hassan started a hiking group which today welcomes participants from more than 37 nationalities and speakers of more than 32 languages. Credit: Hiking Tribe
“I envisioned a welcoming community where people from all backgrounds could share experiences, enjoy nature and build a sense of belonging," Najam shared.
For me, it’s not just about hiking; it’s about creating connections.Najam UsSaqib
Hassan reflected on many shared moments around the campfire, saying some participants had even found life partners through the group.
Both co-founders emphasised that physical and emotional safety was a top priority whenever hiking.
Together with Parteek Narsi, one of their first volunteers, they ensure every member is equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge.
"Trail grade details (2, 3, or 4), risk waiver information and updates are shared through social media and closed chat groups, encouraging members to bring a first aid kit and, if possible, an Ambulance Victoria membership," Najam said.
Addressing loneliness
According to research from Headspace in 2022 showed that 60 per cent of young people in Australia often feel lonely and 62 per cent feel left out.
The network's CEO, Associate Professor Michelle Lim, told SBS News .
Dr Shehzi Yusaf, a clinical psychologist based in Sydney, said the emerging field of ecopsychology examines the connection between nature and human well-being.
She pointed to a that found spending just two hours per week in natural outdoor settings, such as parks, can greatly enhance mental and physical health.
"Time spent outdoors helps reduce stress, improve attention and elevate mood," Yusaf said.
"Loneliness, often caused by social isolation, affects many Australians, particularly vulnerable groups like young people, migrants and the elderly. This can harm both mental and physical health."
Being outdoors offers opportunities to connect, start conversations, and form friendships, helping individuals, especially singles, feel a sense of shared humanity.Dr Shehzi Yusaf, clinical psychologist
Before coming to Australia in 2018, Najam lived in Qatar, the UK and Germany, where he said he learned the "richness" of diversity.
According to the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute's , nearly nine in 10 Australians enjoy meeting people from different cultural backgrounds.
"Hiking Tribe was created to celebrate (diversity), offering a space for people to connect, share stories, and learn from each other, fostering understanding and acceptance," he said.
Hassan arrived in Australia in 2009 on a student visa and soon became passionate about hiking.
He said one of the most challenging hikes he has led was to Mount Buller, a 10km passage with significant elevation and dangerous sections.
Despite the difficulty, the group completed it in five hours and 30 minutes, with each member feeling proud of their achievement.
For Australia Day, we have planned a walk around Albert Park Lake, followed by an inclusive picnic and barbecue.Syed Hassan
Hassan recalled another heartwarming moment during a hike in Bright, where non-regular hikers completed over 10km, unaware of how far they'd walked.
Group members during a 10km hike in Bright, Victoria.
"I find fulfilment in the cultural connections made, especially when participants meet life partners, motivating us to continue creating meaningful experiences," he added.
Helpful hiking
Cheuk Hei Hon, a Cantonese speaker from Hong Kong who arrived in Australia in 2023, told SBS Urdu he joined the Hiking Tribe just a week after landing down under.
"Hiking, my favourite hobby for over 10 years, helped me connect with others and feel at home," he added.
The group not only made adapting easier with advice on house-renting and job-hunting but also allowed me to learn about different cultures, enriching my experience in Australia's multicultural community.Cheuk Hei Hon
Likewise, Fiorini expressed her gratitude for her newfound support network.
"Following the heartbreak of a long-term relationship, facing life alone in a foreign country was deeply challenging, but joining the Hiking Tribe brought me comfort and a sense of belonging," she said.
Cheuk Hei Hon joined the Hiking Tribe a week after arriving in Australia in 2023. Credit: Cheuk Hei Hon
