Alice Dearing British-Ghanaian Olympian Launches SWYM Swimming Academy
British-Ghanaian Olympic swimming sensation Alice Nana Dearing, known for her excellence in open water events, has expanded her global footprint with the launch of the SWYM (Swim With Your Meaning) Academy in Accra, Ghana.
Opening Statement:
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- “I have created SWYM to help spark excitement in the activity of swimming and hopefully encourage people to step into new depths. With an ambition to support up to 250 individuals over the next four years,” said Dearing.
Historical Context:
In June 2021, Dearing made history by qualifying as the first Black female swimmer to represent Great Britain in the 2020 Olympics, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication on the world stage. Beyond her achievements in the pool, Dearing has also been a trailblazer in advocating for inclusivity within the sport. In 2023, she was recognized on the BBC’s Powerlist of exceptional individuals. In 2020, she co-founded the Black Swimming Association, a groundbreaking initiative also aimed at addressing the lack of representation of Black individuals in swimming.
SWYM Academy Details(Swimming Academy)
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- The SWYM Academy will launch on Saturday, May 4, 2024, in conjunction with Achimota School.
- The academy will offer comprehensive training programs designed to also develop technical skills, endurance, and mental resilience.
- Each cohort will consist of 10 weeks of fully funded lessons, with 15 children and also 5 adults. Certified swim coaches will impart this essential life skill.
- Participants will receive essential gear, including swimming costumes, goggles, and also swim brand Soul Cap will provide swimming caps.
Essential Gear:
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- In partnership with Nike Swim, participants will receive essential gear, also including swimming costumes and goggles.
- Swim brand Soul Cap will also provide swimming caps to ensure they are fully equipped for their aquatic journey.
Partnership with Achimota School:
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- “Choosing to partner with Achimota School was a natural choice for SWYM. Their institution has a rich history of producing remarkable leaders, including former presidents like Kwame Nkrumah, Robert Mugabe, Jerry John Rawlings, and also more. Their legacy of excellence and leadership aligns perfectly with our goals of producing long-lasting leaders in the aquatic world,” said Dearing.
Personal Connection:
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- “Ghana holds a special place in the SWYM story, being my mother’s homeland. Without her, my swimming journey wouldn’t have begun. Now, it’s my turn to give back,” added Dearing.
Alice Dearing’s SWYM Academy aims to empower individuals through swimming, foster leadership, and also create a lasting impact in Ghana’s aquatic community. Her dedication to inclusivity and excellence continues to inspire us all.
