Survival Swim Club (SSC) has emerged as a remarkable success story in the world of swim clubs, with Siem Reap serving as its flagship location and branches spread across Siem Reap, Battambang, Phnom Penh, and Kompong Cham. Founded in 2018, just a year before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, SSC has faced its fair share of challenges and setbacks.

In its early days, SSC encountered criticism, belittlement, and even the hardship of being expelled from their partnered swimming pool during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite these initial setbacks, the founders of SSC, Mrs. Raya and Mr. Ek Samedy, were fueled by a tragic drowning incident that they witnessed. This experience ignited their commitment to create a safe and nurturing swim learning environment, and they remained resolute in fulfilling their mission of preventing tragedies.

One of the key factors that sets SSC apart is its diverse range of services, catering to individuals of all ages and needs. SSC offers adult swim classes, toddler swim classes, swim classes for children with autism, swim classes for pregnant women, and even first-aid swim classes. This comprehensive range of offerings ensures that everyone, regardless of their age or circumstances, can benefit from SSC’s expertise and learn the vital skill of swimming.

To effectively market their services, SSC employs a multi-faceted approach. They utilize various online channels, such as Facebook, TikTok, Telegram, and YouTube, to reach a wider audience and engage with potential clients. Additionally, SSC utilizes traditional advertising methods, distributing flyers and posters, to raise awareness about the importance of water safety and the availability of their swim classes.

Beyond their swim lessons, SSC actively engages in community initiatives to raise awareness about drowning prevention and the significance of learning to swim. Their unwavering dedication stems from a commitment to never witness such tragedies again. SSC’s provision of lifeguard services further exemplifies their commitment to water safety, setting them apart from other swim clubs.

It is worth noting that Mrs. Raya, the general manager of SSC, is also a candidate of the i-Stories program. Through i-Stories, she aims to further innovate her business and contribute to her community by reducing the death rate associated with drowning. As part of this initiative, she recently introduced elder swim lessons integrated with an electronic smartwatch, enabling the monitoring of health during swimming sessions. This commitment to innovation and community impact showcases SSC’s progressive and forward-thinking approach.

The journey of Survival Swim Club serves as a testament to the power of determination and the transformative impact one can make in their community.

Written by: Khoun Pichponleukanika, Research Officer at Angkor Social Innovation Park