After three years of war, swimming classes have resumed in Gaza, offering children a rare escape from their traumatic realities. Constructed from sandbags and rubble, five makeshift pools enable hundreds of children to learn swimming skills, providing them with moments of joy in a landscape of fear and loss. With a staggering 96% of children feeling that death is imminent, these classes are a vital respite, allowing them to reclaim a semblance of childhood.
Amjed Tantesh, the founder of Gaza’s first swimming academy, has mobilised volunteers to create these pools. The initiative not only teaches swimming but fosters community and friendship among the children, who have endured unimaginable trauma. For many, these classes are their first experience of play and relaxation in years, a stark contrast to their everyday lives filled with fear of ongoing conflict.
The psychological benefits of swimming are significant, as children like Laila Qahman express newfound confidence and joy in the water. With no formal education available and many living in overcrowded tent camps, these classes provide a crucial outlet for expression and healing. Tantesh hopes to expand the programme, aiming to teach thousands more children if funding allows.
As these children splash and play, they momentarily forget their harsh realities. This initiative not only restores a sense of normalcy but also highlights the resilience of Gaza’s youth, who continue to seek joy amid despair. The swimming classes are a testament to the importance of play in healing and rebuilding lives after conflict.
Source: The Guardian
