Former Love Island star Tasha Ghouri has spoken out about the ableism she encountered while filming the BBC's Pilgrimage: The Road to Holy Island. The 25-year-old, who is deaf, said she faced prejudice from some viewers who questioned her ability to take part in the gruelling 390km walk across North East England.
Ghouri, who is an atheist, joined six other celebrities on the journey, including Diversity's Ashley Banjo and actor Hermione Norris. She said the experience was 'empowering' but that she was subjected to 'ignorant comments' online. 'People assumed I wouldn't be able to do it because I'm deaf,' she told the BBC. 'But I proved them wrong.'
The show, which airs on BBC Two and iPlayer, follows the group as they trek through wild landscapes, visiting landmarks such as Whitby Abbey and Durham Cathedral before reaching the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Ghouri said the pilgrimage taught her to be 'more vocal' about her faith, despite not believing in God.
Fellow pilgrim Ashley Banjo praised Ghouri's resilience, saying she was 'an inspiration'. The dancer added: 'She didn't let anything hold her back. It was amazing to see.' The series is set to air over Easter, with the group reflecting on their journey and the power of the experience.
