Iranian refugee who saved 100 people as a lifeguard becomes swim teacher

An Iranian refugee, who has previously worked as an actor, model, lifeguard and assistant physiotherapist, has just qualified as a swimming teacher through a new scheme.

After signing up for the Trainee Swim Teacher scheme offered by social enterprise GLL, Hadi Hosseini, 44, from Sydenham, passed his Swim Teacher’s Association qualification with flying colours and has now been offered a job at Forest Hill Pools in Lewisham.

The course is free to asylum-seekers looking to forge a new life in the UK and also comes with a guaranteed offer of employment for those who pass.

GLL has been working alongside The Refugee Council in Lewisham to promote the scheme to its clients.

Mr Hosseini first came to the UK at the end of last year and unlike many visitors to these shores, is entranced by the grey skies. “I don’t like the summer – I love cloudy weather,” he said.

“I’ve always loved swimming and everything to do with water. In my home country, I was a lifeguard and saved more than 100 people from the sea.”

When he’s not working as a swimming teacher, he is studying part-time at Lewisham College to gain further qualifications in massage, aromatherapy and physiotherapy.

“I like to be busy and to keep improving myself,” he concludes. “I’m looking forward to experiencing more of British life – going to pubs or museums – but for now, I don’t have time.

“My colleagues in Forest Hill have been amazingly supportive and welcoming and I’m really looking forward to continuing my career in the leisure industry.”

Pictured top: Hadi Hosseini and Forest Hill Pools (Picture: GLL and Google Street View)