Durban, 13 August 2024 – Olympic medalist and Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa ambassador, Terence Parkin, delivered an inspiring and informative presentation on beach and river safety to 110 students at Fulton School for the Deaf in Durban. The event, part of the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to promote water safety awareness across South Africa, aimed to equip the students with essential knowledge and skills to stay safe near water.
Terence Parkin’s visit to Fulton School for the Deaf held special significance, as it is the school he attended from the age of 3 until 18. Returning to his alma mater as an ambassador for water safety, Parkin has come full circle, now using his platform to give back to the community that helped shape his early years.
As a renowned figure in the world of swimming and a dedicated advocate for water safety, Terence Parkin has a unique connection to the deaf community. His presentation at Fulton School, which caters specifically to deaf and hard-of-hearing students, was delivered in South African Sign Language (SASL), ensuring that every child fully understood the crucial information being shared.
Parkin emphasized the importance of understanding the potential dangers present at beaches and rivers, such as strong currents, rip tides, and the unpredictability of natural bodies of water. He also discussed the significance of never swimming alone, always informing others before entering the water, and recognizing warning signs and flags displayed by lifeguards.
In addition to practical advice, Parkin shared personal anecdotes from his swimming career, highlighting how his own experiences in water have underscored the importance of safety. His relatable approach and ability to connect with the students made the session both engaging and impactful.
The event at Fulton School for the Deaf is part of the foundation’s broader initiative to reduce drowning incidents, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the differently-abled. With drowning being one of the leading causes of accidental death worldwide, the Foundation’s work is critical in fostering a culture of safety and awareness.
Odette Swift, Principal of Fulton School for the Deaf, expressed her gratitude for Terence Parkin’s visit and the valuable lessons imparted to the students. “We are incredibly thankful to Terence and the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa for their dedication to our students’ safety. Terence’s ability to communicate directly with our learners in their language made a world of difference. His message about beach and river safety is relevant and could be life-saving for our children. This event has empowered our students with the knowledge they need to stay safe and confident near water,” said Swift.
Fulton School for the Deaf, known for its inclusive and supportive environment, was the perfect setting for this event. The students, who face unique challenges due to hearing impairments, greatly benefited from Parkin’s tailored approach. The school’s staff expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s efforts in making water safety education accessible to their students.
As the session concluded, the students left with a deeper understanding of the importance of water safety and a renewed sense of confidence in their ability to enjoy aquatic environments safely. Terence Parkin’s visit to Fulton School for the Deaf underscores the ongoing commitment of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa to making a tangible difference in the lives of South African youth through education, awareness, and empowerment.
For more information on upcoming events and initiatives by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa, visit www.pcmfsa.com.
