In 2013, I began my journey in the world of swimming instruction under unexpected but fortuitous circumstances. While babysitting for a family, the mother asked if I’d be interested in teaching children how to swim over the summer. Without hesitation, I eagerly accepted the opportunity. From that moment, I knew that my love for working with children and my passion for teaching would seamlessly come together to create a fulfilling and rewarding summer job.

I started riding my bike to Ann's Swimming School in Miami, FL, where I began as a teacher’s assistant. With dedication and a genuine enthusiasm for the work, I quickly advanced to the role of swim instructor. Each passing summer deepened my love for teaching children essential water safety skills and ignited my passion for sharing the joy I felt when I was in the water.

As I gained more experience and saved enough money to purchase my first car, I was given the opportunity to teach private lessons at clients' homes. Word spread quickly, and soon, I was driving around Coconut Grove and South Miami, offering lessons to children in the neighborhood. It was during one of these lessons that a mother described me as “The Neighborhood Mermaid” because of the convenience and personalized touch I brought to her child’s swimming lessons. It was a moment of inspiration – I knew this would be the perfect name for my future swim school.

In 2017, I graduated from high school and went on to earn my bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). While at FGCU, I lost sight of my dream as I became focused on securing a traditional career path that promised financial stability. After graduation, I worked with homebuilders in the area and was successful at what I did, but it soon became clear that this was not my true calling. Although I was excelling in my job, I felt increasingly unfulfilled.

Throughout this period, I continued teaching swim lessons on the side, and it was during this time that I rediscovered my passion. I realized that working with children, spreading awareness about child drowning prevention, and serving my community brought me more joy than any corporate job ever could. With renewed determination, I finally made the leap – I left my day job behind and embraced the opportunity to pursue what I truly loved.

Today, I am proud to say that my work doesn’t feel like work at all. Each day, I have the privilege of helping children learn critical water safety skills, all while building lasting relationships with families in my community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to make a difference, one neighborhood at a time.

As an FGCU alumnus and a professional swim instructor with over 12 years of experience, I continue to find inspiration in the growth and progress of the children I teach. Whether I’m in the water with them or engaging with their families, my love for teaching began from my first day as a swim teacher’s assistant and has only grown stronger with time.