The Transformational Power of Swimming | Libby Alexander

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#impact is happy to participate in this 3rd edition of Podcasthon! For one week, more than a thousand podcasts will highlight a charity of their choice. If you enjoy this episode, feel free to visit www.podcasthon.org to discover hundreds of other associations through the voices and talents of amazing podcasters!

In a world where over half the population does not know how to swim, access to swimming becomes a privilege, often unavailable to marginalized communities. The Splash Foundation, co-founded by Libby Alexander in Hong Kong, empowers and transforms communities through swimming. On the occasion of their 10th anniversary in 2025, let us dive into the incredible journey and impact of the Splash Foundation, as shared by Libby.

A Simple Idea, A Powerful Transformation

The Splash Foundation began with a simple yet transformative idea. Libby, along with Simon Holliday, set out to provide swimming lessons to those who wouldn’t typically have the opportunity, particularly migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong. Swimming, they discovered, was merely a vehicle for fostering confidence, community and change. As Libby notes, “Swimming is just the vehicle… it’s about all these other things that they were getting out of this transformational experience.”

Breaking Barriers, One Stroke at a Time

The statistics are staggering: two out of three women globally cannot swim, and swim literacy rates reveal a consistent lack of access worldwide. Addressing these disparities, Splash Foundation tackles barriers (both economic and cultural!) by offering free swimming lessons. The joy and commitment witnessed in learners, eager to take on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, drive the Foundation’s mission. “It’s absolutely staggering the impact,” Libby emphasizes.

Building a Community of Changemakers

The uniqueness of the Splash Foundation lies in its community-driven model. Graduates, having overcome their fear of swimming, often become volunteer coaches themselves. Libby reflects fondly, “Watching our graduate coaches who learned how to swim with us and now teach others is just wonderful.” This cycle of empowerment not only sustains the organisation but magnifies its reach and impact.

Overcoming the Challenges of Growth

Like many nonprofits, Splash faces the constant challenge of securing funding and expanding its reach. Libby’s approach is clear: focus on measuring impact and remain steadfast in the organisation’s strategy. While the journey involves many “no’s” and challenges, Libby remains committed, explaining, “You have to be really clear on what your impact is. You’re not going to fit with everyone, and that’s okay.”

A Call to Action

Looking forward, the Splash Foundation aims to replicate its successful model globally, sharing resources and advising communities on setting up similar programs.

“Sometimes we talk too much and think too much and don’t do enough. It’s about taking a spark of an idea and making something of it.”

As the Splash Foundation marks its 10th anniversary with (soon over) 10,000 graduates, it showcases the power of a simple idea, executed with passion and community spirit. For those inspired by Libby’s story, Splash welcomes your support and involvement. Visit their website, connect on social media, and join in the mission of transforming lives through swimming.

Get Involved:

If you’re in Hong Kong or Singapore, join the Splash Foundation’s mission by volunteering or spreading the word. Visit Splash Foundation’s website or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Let’s make waves of change together!

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
00:46 Libby’s Background and Journey to Splash Foundation
01:53 The Impact and Evolution of Splash Foundation
04:46 Challenges and Success Stories
09:11 Global Swim Literacy and Barriers
11:56 Volunteer Coaches and Community Building
19:19 Funding and Sustainability
30:58 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Connect with Libby Alexander and her team here:

This episode is proudly part of Podcasthon

#impact is happy to participate in this 3rd edition of Podcasthon! For one week, more than a thousand podcasts will highlight a charity of their choice. If you enjoyed this episode feel free to visit www.podcasthon.org to discover hundreds of other associations through the voices and talents of amazing podcasters!