A swimming programme set up to support young people from Black and ethnic minority communities who cannot swim has been shortlisted for a national prize.
Making Waves, launched by Brent-based youth organisation Divine Purpose, is a finalist in the Aquatics Champion category at the Sporting Equals Award.
The scheme offers free swimming lessons to non-swimmers aged 12 to 16 and is funded by Brent Health Matters, Veolia, and Sported.
Classes take place at Willesden Sports Centre.
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Ngozi Ijanboh, CEO of Divine Purpose, said: "We started the Making Waves programme because too many young people from our communities are missing out on the opportunity to learn how to swim. Seeing their confidence grow week by week has been incredible.
"Being recognised nationally shows how important it is to create accessible opportunities for young people right here in Brent."
Following the success of the first programme, two additional programmes will launch this year, each supporting up to 40 young people.
An estimated 94 per cent of adults and 79 per cent of children from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds in England do not swim. The programme aims to address these disparities by building skills and confidence in the water.
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