We Are England S2022E41 - Sporting Heroes - Swim School

Londoner Annalize Butler has been teaching swimming since 2006 and in that time she's noticed something – she's one of the only black swimming instructors around. It's not just the instructors – statistics show that only 2% of regular swimmers are black, something Annalize is determined to change.

BOSS – Black Owned Swim School - was born after Annalize posted an advert on social media and met up with a group of parents in the West Midlands. They were all keen to have her teach their children how to swim. She now runs lessons in and around Birmingham and Wolverhampton for children and adults from all backgrounds.

In the film, Annalize meets Noe whose 15-year-old son Thando tragically drowned last July. She gives Gugu, Thando's brother, some vital lifesaving lessons and tips on swimming in open water.

Now, Annalize is determined to grow BOSS and has set herself the target of teaching in 100 pools. She also wants to start offering open water swimming lessons and raise awareness of water safety in the black community.