Black People Will Swim (B.P.W.S.) is tackling a critical issue: systemic barriers that prevent Black people from learning to swim.

But we refuse to let these challenges define our community’s relationship with water. We’re rewriting the narrative and taking action.

Here’s how B.P.W.S. is making a lasting impact:
Affordable & Free Swim Lessons – We offer low-cost to free swimming classes to break financial barriers.
Community Partnerships – We collaborate with local pools to ensure accessibility and affordability.
Instructor Pipeline Program – Graduates of our program can become certified swim instructors—at no cost. We’re eliminating a major financial hurdle while also creating job opportunities within our community.

My name is Paulana (rhymes with Moana), and my work thrives at the intersection of social media and social impact. I founded a mission-driven organization, Black People Will Swim, to encourage Black and Brown people to F.A.C.E. their fears and learn to swim. Outside of BPWS, I am a multimedia journalist and social media strategist on a mission to tell stories traditional media does not tell.

I've used my work to highlight and amplify women and people of color across various industries. As a swim instructor, I've shared my passion for swimming with Black and Brown kids from low-income cities. I've also brought my joy for the sport and life skills to numerous places like Junior Olympic swim teams, Y.M.C.A.s, N.Y.C. public schools, and more. After 10 years of sharing my love for this sport and life skill, I started Black People Will Swim, where we meet the needs of the Black community and serve them deeply.