Swim X: A Student-Led Initiative Making Water Safety More Equitable for Newcomer Youth

When Grade 12 student Xander Christian learned that only half of newcomer youth in Canada report basic swimming skills compared with 90 percent of Canadian-born children, he saw more than a statistic. He saw an opportunity to lead.

Determined to close this gap, Xander founded Swim X, a youth-led initiative that offers free and inclusive swim lessons for newcomer children in Halifax. In collaboration with ISANS and local community partners, Swim X introduces participants to essential water safety skills, helps them build confidence in the pool, and supports a greater sense of belonging in their new community.

A cornerstone of this project’s success is the Gordon Stirrett Wealth Management Community Service Grant. Established in 2010 by past parent Gordon Stirrett (Scott Stirrett ’09), the grant provides seed funding up to $1,000 for student-led community initiatives that make a meaningful impact locally, nationally, or globally.

For Swim X, this support was transformative. The grant ensured that every participant had access to appropriate swimwear and necessary equipment, removing financial barriers that often prevent newcomer children from participating in water safety programs. By alleviating these challenges, the grant helped make Swim X more accessible, more equitable, and more impactful.

Xander’s work is a strong example of the grant’s purpose in action: empowering Grammar students in Grades 7 to 12 to engage deeply with their communities, to lead with compassion, and to create meaningful change.

Xander’s thoughtful approach and commitment to community leadership have now been recognized on a national stage. His article on the development and impact of Swim X was recently published by PHE Canada, underscoring both the urgent need for equitable access to swim education and the power of youth-led initiatives.

Swim X reflects the very best of Grammar’s Altruism pillar: students identifying real needs, taking thoughtful action, and helping create a more inclusive community.

We are immensely proud of Xander for his vision, his dedication, and the difference he is making in the lives of newcomer children. His work shows what is possible when young leaders are supported, empowered, and encouraged to act.

Read Xander’s full article in PHE Canada: https://phecanada.ca/professional-learning/journal/swim-x-bridging-water-safety-gap-for-newcomer-youth-canada