Multicultural Swim and Survive English Literacy Program wrap-up
As a result of generous funding from the City of Adelaide, Royal Life Saving South Australia conducted an 8-week program for adults of a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse background between May-July 2022. The program was designed to accomodate all abilities, with the aim of teaching participants how to use practical water safety skills throughout inland and coastal waterways. In additional to core swimming skills, participants learned skills such as reach rescues and throw rescues, and how to identify dangers in, on and around water.
Over 100 participants were able to participate in this program, with an age range between 18-60 years old. Many of these participants that have recently moved to Adelaide have never experienced Australian waterways, and with the skills learned they are looking forward to continuing to practice their skills.
We were very fortunate to meet these participants, and learn from them. Some of these stories include Taseef and Hirad, who attended the entire program.
" I came into the Swim and Survive program with a fear of water bred for decades, and scepticism of whether I can overcome my anxiety. The incredible team at The Royal Life Saving and Adelaide Aquatic Centre welcomed me into their family and introduced me to the methods by which I can keep myself safe in and around the water and helped me overcome my fear of the water; that too in just 8 weeks! Thank you Royal Life Saving, especially Jake, Jayne, and Karen for putting a smile on my face and giving me a chance chance at appreciating the waters safely! " - Taseef Farook
“ Before I joined the program, when I was near water, including pools and oceans, I had always been afraid of drowning and frustrated that I couldn't swim. Swimming became relaxing for me after participating in the Swim and Survive program. Over the course of 8 weeks, I learned water awareness and safety as well as some basic swimming skills. My skills improved under the supervision of caring and lovely instructors. I would like to thank the organisers, instructors, and participants who helped me to feel more comfortable and confident in the water. I'm excited to share what I've learned about water safety with my peers and attend more classes so that I can learn more swimming skills. “ - Hirad Assimi
On the final day of the program, we had the pleasure of welcoming City of Adelaide Deputy Lord Mayor - Councillor Arman Abrahimzadeh OAM to present certificates to participants of the program. Mr Abrahimzadeh shared his story with participants and congratulated them for their courage of participating in this program.
To finish the program the City of Adelaide introduced a pathway program for participants to continue their water safety lessons beyond the 8-week program. We would like to thank the City of Adelaide for their commitment to water safety education for CALD communities, and for ensuring the Adelaide Aquatic Centre is an inclusive space for everyone.