Yazan Al Bawwab, OLY
Yazan Al Bawwab is a two-time Olympian swimmer who represented Palestine at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games. He holds degrees in Aero/Mechanical Engineering and International Sports Management from the University of London, combining his academic excellence with his athletic achievements. A recipient of a Medal of Honour, he also serves as an IOC Young Leader, Safeguarding Officer and FISU Ambassador.
Beyond the pool, Yazan is deeply committed to advancing sport in Palestine. He founded the Palestinian Olympians Association and leads the Palestinian Athletes’ Commission, ensuring athletes’ voices are heard. Through his initiative, SwimHope Palestine, he is addressing drowning risks, uplifting refugees and children affected by conflict, and expanding access to swimming education. Alongside his social-impact work, Yazan also manages a family furniture business in Dubai.
SwimHope Palestine is a sport-for-development initiative dedicated to providing underserved and refugee communities in Palestine with access to swimming education and life-saving water safety skills. The project focuses on children aged 6-9, empowering them through structured lessons that build both confidence and resilience.
By establishing training groups along Gaza’s beach line and setting up temporary swimming pools in safe locations, the programme introduces a tailored swimming curriculum adapted to local realities. What began as an effort to reduce drowning incidents in Gaza has grown into a holistic project that fosters health, inclusion and hope.
Through SwimHope Palestine, Yazan and his team are creating safe spaces where young people can learn, play and thrive – turning swimming into a powerful tool for survival, empowerment and unity.
SDGs
