Beyond the Water: What It Truly Means to Be a Beach Mentor

Being a Swimming Mentor on Príncipe has been an experience beyond anything I ever imagined. I’m halfway through my journey, and so far my heart has filled with unforgettable memories, a deep love for the island, and, above all, for the people around me. I dreamed about this experience for a long time, and actually living it has felt surreal.

I never imagined I would end up on Príncipe. I was hesitant, I won’t hide that, but I came, and it was the best decision I could have made. There is so little information about this small paradise, and coming here blindly can be scary, but I hope this testimony helps clear up some of the doubts that might exist.

Swimming is used as a tool for overcoming fears, learning, and empowerment. Being a Swimming Mentor is much more than teaching how to swim; it is watching girls who have never entered the sea face the fear of the unknown. Throughout the classes, we work on fear and on the insecurities, both physical and emotional, that they carry within themselves. We break down cultural myths and, above all, create a space of trust.

In a context where the sea is, for many, synonymous with fear, facing the ocean is an act of courage. The classes are a process of emotional growth, where we proudly celebrate every small achievement. It goes far beyond learning how to swim: it is constantly showing them what they are capable of. It is helping them recognize their strength, trust their bodies and their voices, and develop tools they carry with them out of the water and into life.

In my day-to-day work, I’m responsible for planning the classes, guided by SOMA's manual and, whenever needed, the team. Of course, knowing how to swim is important, but you don’t need to be a professional. Personally, my experience comes from the swimming lessons I had until my teenage years. What really matters is having the right mindset; the rest flows naturally.

Every class requires a report, but don’t worry, it’s short, and you have access to all the previous ones to guide you, not only in planning the lessons but also in knowing what to write when it’s your turn. As I said, these are not just swimming lessons: I also support study sessions and mentor eleven incredible girls. For this role, I have one day a week dedicated to visiting their homes and families, where I get closer to each girl’s reality. These visits are moments of great closeness and, in most cases, I’m welcomed with open arms.

Families are eager to know how their girls are progressing and, above all, to see photos from the classes. This experience has filled me with constant joy. I celebrate every personal achievement as if it were my own. Seeing the sparkle in the eyes of someone who floated for the first time, jumping with happiness when they manage to dive, celebrating because they knew everything on a test, and being the person they trust to share personal matters, among so many other things.

These simple moments are what make me my happiest and most fulfilled self. It wouldn’t make sense to be anywhere else.

Before coming here, I heard a lot about the magic of Príncipe. It sounds unbelievable, but it’s real. The magic exists, and only those who come here can truly understand it.

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