In the hazy summer of 1995, I, a curious five-year-old, stood at the edge of a pool, surrounded by a motley crew of cousins ranging from four to seven years old. It was a day that would mark the beginning of my lifelong love affair with the water, orchestrated by none other than my uncle, my mom's brother.
On that fateful day, my uncle, despite his own lack of swimming prowess, took it upon himself to teach us the art of swimming. With a mix of trepidation and excitement, we ventured into the deep end, guided by his encouraging presence from the poolside. It was a daunting task, but none of us emerged worse for wear. Instead, we emerged water-safe, a testament to the power of determination and familial love.
My journey with swimming continued as I moved to Singapore in 1997, where it blossomed into a professional pursuit. Weekly swim lessons and school galas became the rhythm of my life, shaping me into a confident swimmer and water enthusiast. Upon returning to South Africa in 1999, my mother wasted no time in enrolling me in a swimming club, recognizing and nurturing my passion for aquatics.
Competitive swimming and water polo soon became integral parts of my high school years, instilling in me a sense of discipline, camaraderie, and resilience. But beyond the trophies and accolades, it was the privilege of growing up with aquatics that left an indelible mark on my soul.
In a world where swimming lessons have become a luxury, I count myself fortunate to possess a life skill that transcends boundaries. It's a privilege I don't take lightly, which is why, in 2019, I embarked on a mission close to my heart: the Learn-to-Swim Project for Underprivileged Children.
Born out of a desire to share the transformative power of swimming with those less fortunate, the project sponsors fully comprehensive learn-to-swim programs for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. From transport to and from lessons to swimwear, towels, and even post-lesson meals, no detail is spared in ensuring these children have the opportunity to embrace the water with confidence and joy.
As I watch these children take their first tentative strokes and witness the spark of empowerment ignite within them, I am reminded of Maya Angelou's timeless words: "When you learn, teach; when you get, give." It's a philosophy that guides me in every stroke I take and every lesson I impart, knowing that the gift of swimming is one that keeps on giving.
In the water, I've found peace, confidence, and boundless joy. And through the Learn-to-Swim Project, I hope to pass on that same sense of empowerment to every child, one stroke at a time.