International Women’s Day 2024

International Women’s Day 

International Women’s Day is a global celebration that honors the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is a day to recognise and appreciate the contributions of women in various fields. This day also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality and the empowerment of women worldwide. It is a time to reflect on the progress made towards gender equity and to continue working towards a more inclusive and diverse society where all women have the opportunity to thrive and strive for a future where every woman’s voice is heard and valued.

In light of International Women’s Day, this year also marks the Black Swimming Association’s (BSA) fourth year anniversary. In honour of this remarkable occasion, it seems only fitting to  spotlight some of the BSA’s amazing work, including its female dominated team of co-founders. Did you know that 3 out of 4 of BSA’s co-founders are women? 

About the BSA

The BSA is a non-profit organisation, set up to diversify the world of aquatics through education, advocacy, support and research. They are dedicated to understanding and addressing barriers that limit communities of African, Caribbean, and Asian heritage from engaging in aquatics and water safety. The BSA works in partnership with institutions as a bridge to their communities so that they can comprehensively tackle issues of diversity, inclusion, participation, engagement and representation in aquatics.

The BSA Empowers Women

The BSA has achieved some amazing milestones over the past four years and it is fair to say that the importance of female leadership can not be overstated. Each of the BSA’s female co-founders have brought unique perspectives, skills, and ideas to the table which have been essential for creating a more diverse and inclusive aquatic landscape as well as contributing to the success of the BSA. Let’s take a look at the profiles of the BSA’s female co-founders…

Alice Dearing’s profile

Alice Dearing is a British swimmer, specialising in open water events. In June 2021, Alice qualified to represent Great Britain in the 2020 Olympics. In addition to this, Alice is also 1 of 4 t co-founders of the BSA and continues to be an advocate for working towards a more inclusive aquatic landscape.

“This week marks the fourth anniversary of The BSA . An organisation founded to promote the welfare and inclusion of POC in aquatics. I sometimes can’t believe what has been achieved in such a short amount of time. But there are still so many people we are yet to reach. To everyone who has supported us so far we are grateful and thankful for your belief in our work and cause. Here’s to the next four!”

Danielle Obe’s profile

Danielle Obe is an accomplished Business Change & Integration Management Consultant, 1 of 4 Co-founders and the Chair of the BSA Group of Companies.

Under Danielle’s leadership, the BSA has gone from a simple concept to a nationally recognised fledgling organisation positioned as a disruptive force within the aquatic sector.

Danielle is also an entrepreneur, mother of three avid swimmers and inventor of the Nemes, a simple yet revolutionary and versatile aquatic aid designed to solve a significant barrier to aquatics.

“When we founded the BSA four years ago, nothing could have prepared us for the transformative journey we, our communities and the sector would embark on. Whilst looking back we can see some evidence of progress, there’s much more ground to cover and a lot more work to be done to make aquatics equitably accessible to all; from vital water safety and drowning prevention to recreational participation and workforce development.

In the meantime, I would like to express my profound thanks and gratitude first to our phenomenal BSA team, our strategic and collaborative partners, fellow change agents and funders. Here’s to chapter 5!”

Seren Jones’ profile 

Seren Jones is an ex-elite swimmer, award-winning journalist and podcast producer. Nominated for both BAFTA and ARIAS awards, Seren is also one of the Radio Academy’s 30 Under 30 finalists and one of PodPod’s Faces to Watch winners.

Seren is currently a host and producer at Blanchard House, an independent production company specialising in narrative non-fiction podcasts. Prior to her time at Blanchard House, she spent five years working as a presenter, reporter and podcast producer for BBC News. Beyond journalism, Seren is also 1 of 4 co-founders of the BSA

“It’s hard to put into words what the last four years have meant. It’s been a period of trying and trying again, receiving support whilst receiving criticism, and endless life lessons. The bottom line is, the work is life-changing so it always, inevitably takes a village. I’m beyond grateful to everyone, from past to present, who has been part of the BSA journey so far – thanks for buying in and thanks for believing.”

Paving The Way

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is crucial to recognise and honor the contributions of remarkable women who continue to defy societal norms and pave the way for gender equality. By celebrating their achievements and highlighting their stories, we are not only paying tribute, but supporting emerging leaders of the future in shaping a more inclusive and empowered society for all.