One extraordinary woman, Sahar Al Zadeh, from Perth’s multicultural community has gone the extra mile to support other members in the community in learning how to swim and achieving her swimming teacher qualification.
After migrating to Australia less than seven years ago, Sahar was eager to begin learning some essential water safety and swimming skills necessary to enjoy WA’s waterways safely. Finding our multicultural women’s only swimming lessons, the young pharmacist quickly discovered a passion for water safety through the support of her peers during her lessons.
As a student swimmer, she found herself translating and assisting the other participants in the program. With the support of Royal Life Saving, Sahar later worked towards completing her own qualification as a swim teacher.
Royal Life Saving WA Inclusion Manager, Achol Madong, says swimming and water safety skills are vital to be able to safely enjoy the Australian lifestyle. Thanks to funding from the Department of Health and Lotterywest, Royal Life Saving was able to provide culturally appropriate swimming lessons to migrant communities during the 2021-22 financial year.
“As we head into the warmer months, it’s important that we have enough swimming instructors who can pass on knowledge through water safety education,” said Achol.
"Under the Department of Health we provide support to ensure our instructors and aquatic staff are well trained and culturally competent."
One year on, Sahar became a fully qualified swim teacher working on the Royal Life Saving WA Multicultural Swimming program as a casual instructor.
Sahar could not recommend the course enough, stating that she believes more women from the community would benefit from the opportunity of casual work.
This flexible training option is the perfect career opportunity for those who are looking for something that can fit around their busy schedule.
“If you are a stay-at-home mum or dad, a high school or university student that is looking for casual work, swim instructing is an opportunity you can fit around your schedule, with work available during school hours, after school, evenings and weekends,” said Achol.
