Superstar Swimmer and Volunteer: Esh Amram
Esh posing for International Women’s Day
Making Waves: My Swimming Journey and the Bantham Swoosh
Growing up near the Mediterranean Sea, I learned to swim at a young age. However, my mum was always overprotective when it came to swimming—understandably so, as her little brother had almost drowned as a child. Because of this, I never quite reached my full swimming potential until I was an adult. It wasn’t until I discovered the joys of open-water swimming, particularly in cold water, that I truly found my love for the sport. Now, after 3.5 years of braving the chill, swimming has become a passion and a source of empowerment.
Finding a Community in Cold Water
Living in London means access to outdoor swimming can be a bit tricky, but the Ladies’ Pond in Hampstead Heath has become my local escape. Since getting a bike, it’s even easier to make my way there for a refreshing dip! It’s more than just a swimming spot—it’s a community of strong, supportive women who have helped fuel my passion for outdoor swimming.
In 2019, I signed up for my first-ever swimming event, the Bantham Swoosh, as a way to celebrate my 40th birthday. It was a milestone challenge, made even more daunting by my chronic illness and fatigue. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to complete it, but I did—and I had the most incredible time. That experience changed everything. I was hooked!
Since then, I’ve returned to the Swoosh, bringing along a team of seven fellow swimmers from the Ladies’ Pond. I even went on to complete the Dart10k—my first marathon swim—as a skins swimmer, doing only breaststroke. This year, I’ll be back at Bantham for the third time, taking on the Boomerang challenge, and I’ll also be doing my second marathon swim at the Hurly Burly. By the time I turn 50, I’m aiming for the ultimate challenge: swimming the English Channel!
Giving Back Through Volunteering
As a self-employed creative, fundraising can be difficult for me, but I still wanted to contribute to Level Water’s incredible work. Volunteering has given me a way to support the charity in a meaningful way, and the experience has been nothing short of amazing. The Level Water team and fellow volunteers create such a fun and supportive atmosphere at every event, making it easy to come back time and time again.
I’ll never forget my first event with Level Water—after finishing my swim, a volunteer handed me a cup of hot cocoa, and all I wanted to do was hug them! That small act of kindness embodied everything that makes these events so special.
Why I Keep Coming Back
The Bantham Swoosh and other open-water swims are more than just physical challenges—they’re celebrations of resilience, community, and the sheer joy of being in nature. The breathtaking scenery, the camaraderie, and the knowledge that these events support a wonderful cause keep me coming back for more.
This International Women’s Day, I want to celebrate the incredible women who inspire and uplift each other, whether it’s in the water or beyond. Swimming has given me confidence, connection, and a sense of adventure I never expected. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next but by the time I’m 50 I’m aiming to swim the channel!
