Huge shoutout to the amazing staff at the AbPhab youth centre for having me. After a warm welcome, I got started on some light weeding until the cavalry arrived: Steven and Josh! The staff then pointed us towards what can only be described as a Produce Apocalypse. The garden was beautiful, but those tomato plants and lettuces had clearly abandoned all rules of polite society - they were MASSIVE and overgrown. Our task was simple: Tame the Tomatoes. We put in some serious work, but the payoff was immediate! We celebrated our progress by sampling the harvest - snacking on some incredibly delicious tomatoes we 'rescued' from the vines. We even got to take home some of the lettuces! (Who knew gardening could double as a grocery run?) Thanks to Steven and Josh for the great company and teamwork. We achieved some solid, sustainable success in a short amount of time. I’m already looking forward to the next session!

Our mission at Gale Street Organic Community Garden was one to remember.

The energy was uplifting, the teamwork inspiring, and the sense of purpose undeniable.

Having Ivo (GoodGym's CEO) join us brought an extra spark of motivation, while Harry stepped up effortlessly into the skipper’s role, guiding the group with calm confidence and enthusiasm.

With Peter and Virginia coming back for their second session ( 🎉 ), along with Irina and Emdad - our group of 6 GoodGymmers rolled up their sleeves: weeding stubborn patches, watering thirsty plants, clearing paths, filling the water tanks, and even a spot of litter picking to keep the garden looking its best. Every small action added up, leaving the space more welcoming for everyone who visits.

But GoodGym is never just about the tasks.

It’s about why we do what we do. GoodGym connects fitness with kindness, whilst turning energy into positive action for the community. By supporting places like Gale Street Community Garden, we’re caring for our shared spaces and plants; we’re cultivating wellbeing, unity, and a greener, brighter environment for all.

Community gardens are powerful spaces. They bring people together, offer fresh air, encourage sustainable habits, and provide a safe, shared place where friendships can grow alongside the flowers and vegetables. Supporting them means supporting healthier, more connected neighbourhoods. Volunteering adds so much more than physical results. It lifts spirits, strengthens mental health, builds awareness of the challenges around us, and nurtures a sense of responsibility. The feel good factor is undeniable; moving, sweating, and smiling together gives a boost no gym session could match.

A heartfelt thank you to Breda and Nassaba, as always, for guiding us every step of the way. Your encouragement keeps us going, and your presence reminds us of the power of community spirit.

Gale Street Organic Community Garden is proof that when people come together to give their time, even for an hour, change happens.

We left not just with dirt on our gloves, but with lighter hearts, stronger bonds, and the knowledge that together, we made a difference.