“BEYOND
THE SURFACE”
"Beyond the Surface is a transformative initiative focused on tackling systematic exclusions in spaces of water
Our project through a structured pathway, provides training, mentorship, and advocacy, ensuring that underrepresented communities have the skills, opportunities, and access to thrive in spaces of water.
“Spaces of Water”
Think of "spaces of water" as the dynamic, fluid ecosystems where culture, sport, and conservation intersect. These aren't just physical bodies of water—oceans, rivers, lakes, pools—they are the vibrant hubs where communities come together, push boundaries, and create lasting impact. It’s a movement that stretches beyond the water itself, forming a global diaspora of change-makers, athletes, and advocates.
Our "spaces of water" also represent the collaborative think tank we’re building to reshape aquatic spaces, making them inclusive, sustainable, and accessible to all.
Water Statistics
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Children from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities in England are 3.5 times more likely to drown than their white counterparts.
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While 97% of ethnically diverse communities recognize swimming as an important skill, only 59% feel it is accessible to them.
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Nearly half (49%) of individuals from ethnically diverse communities are unable to swim 25 meters unaided, compared to 14% of white communities.
“Free Swim Lessons to
Minority Communities”
“Engaging young people in
spaces of water”
'“Diversifying Conservation and
Access to Activities ”
Ethnically Diverse communities remain significantly underrepresented in aquatic sports due to deep-rooted systemic and cultural barriers.
Our mission is to bridge the representation gap by dismantling these obstacles and creating equitable access to water-based opportunities. By decreasing the amount of BAME children that meet the national curriculum minimum standard for swimming in the UK, it will have a significant positive impact on this statistic, as 40% of all children in the UK do not meet this criteria by the time they leave primary school. Swimming is the ONLY sporting activity that has to be taught in the UK for Physical Education, but is often done the least.
The Founders
Meet Katrice Rodrigues & Chris Desai, the founders of the project
Chris Desai, a professional Yachtmaster Offshore and Global Project Director of UOCEAN 2050, tackling ocean pollution and pioneering diversity around water.
Katrice is a Professional Licensed Swim England Tutor who is the leading expert in Swimming & Diversity across the UK
Swimming - Safety - Sailing - Paddle - Diving
Swimming & Sailing Training
We provide free lessons in swimming, sailing, paddle-boarding,, water safety and other aquatic disciplines, specifically designed to ensure participants from marginalised and disadvantaged communities—especially Black and Asian youth—can confidently navigate, compete, and move freely in aquatic environments. Beyond the physical benefits of these activities, we emphasize the mental and emotional well-being that comes from building confidence, managing challenges, and finding freedom in the water.
Inclusive Conservation
Clean Water and Thriving Communities
We champion cleaner waterways to protect marine ecosystems and ensure that water spaces are safe, accessible, and enjoyable for communities to swim, train, and reconnect with nature. Clean, thriving waterways are essential for the health and well-being of communities, creating safe spaces for physical activity while also sustaining the natural environment for future generations. Our commitment to waterway preservation fosters a deeper.
