Alice Dearing

Alice Dearing is a British Olympian and advocate whose career in swimming and commitment to inclusivity have reshaped the landscape of British sport. She made history as the first Black woman to represent Great Britain in open water swimming at the Olympic Games, competing in the 10km marathon swim at Tokyo 2020. Her achievements in the pool include titles as both World and European Junior Champion, and over seven years of experience as an elite open water swimmer. Alongside her sporting success, Alice has become a recognised voice for representation and equality in aquatics. She is the co-founder of the Black Swimming Association, an organisation committed to breaking down the cultural and structural barriers that prevent Black and Asian communities from engaging in swimming. In 2024, Alice launched SWYM (Swim With Your Meaning), an initiative encouraging personal connection to water and improving access to swimming. Through these efforts, she continues to advocate for life-saving skills, water safety, and more inclusive participation and representation in swimming. Alice's influence has been widely acknowledged. She was named Sunday Times Changemaker of the Year in 2022, placed third on the BBC Woman’s Hour Power List in 2023, and has been recognised by the Sports Journalists’ Association for her work in diversity and inclusion. Alongside her advocacy, Alice has earned academic qualifications in Politics and Social Media and Political Communication, and serves on several advisory and ambassadorial boards, including British Esports and the British Elite Athletes Association. Now retired from competitive swimming, Alice brings her insights as an Olympian, campaigner, and communicator to diverse audiences, offering a unique perspective on sport, social change and the power of representation.