Since 2020, we have led the effort to minimise drownings in Men
Our Story.
On the long weekend of October 2019, Sheikh Jalal Chami, a prominent community leader from South-West Sydney went on a father-son camping trip at Seven Miles beach.
It was there that a few people including sheikh jalal chami got caught in a rip and began to drown. Luckily, there were some off-duty lifeguards camping further down along the beach and were alerted by other members to help.
Co-founders Omar and Feroz heard this story and knew something had to be done. As a result they launched Swim Brothers – a culturally sensitive learn to swim and ocean skills & safety program for all Men with an emphasis on those most vulnerable.
What we've achieved
Jan 20'
Swim Brothers began with a pilot learn to swim program of 10 people funded by NSW Health.
Sep 20'
Swim Brothers learn to swim program expands to over 30.
Co-founders Omar and Feroz pursue formal AUSTSWIM Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety qualifications.
Jan 21'
Public Launch of Swim Brothers beach safety program at North Cronulla Beach with Surf Life Saving NSW.
March 21'
Swim Brothers program expands to over 40 participants
May 21'
Swim Brothers Co-founders Omar and Feroz obtain AUSTSWIM Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety qualifications.
Swim Brothers employs two more swim insturctors to expand the program.
June 21'
Swim brothers holds a "keep your family safe" Water Safety Festival in partnership with Multicultural NSW.
July 22'
Swim brothers produces 9 Bronze medallion lifesavers that are now patrolling Wanda Beach.
What’s Next?
We will continue to run our learn to swim program all year round with the mission of getting as many people as possible comfortable and swimming efficiently in the water.
They are also working closely with Surf Lifesaving NSW and government bodies like Multicultural NSW to deliver water safety and other educational events throughout the year targeted at vulnerable groups.
“What Feroz and Omar have done in establishing the Swim Brothers program is to be commended. When it comes to coastal drownings, people from Western Sydney, particularly people from diverse communities, are identified as an at risk group.”