Swimming across the vast Midmar Dam is no small feat, but for 20-year-old Alicia Moonsamy, this year’s race meant more than just another medal—it was a swim with purpose. Using the world’s largest open-water swim as a platform, Alicia raised funds for the Westcliff Hope Foundation, a non-profit close to her heart and home.
She began her journey swimming the mile at the tender age of nine, now at her eighth Midmar Mile, Alicia chose to dedicate the swim to the children of Westcliff, where her parents were born and raised. Having officially partnered with the foundation, she is on a mission to support underprivileged youth and champion education equality in the area.
“I chose this particular cause because my parents are from Westcliff, and I know the struggles they went through. I also understand the hardships people there continue to face. I’ve been fortunate to grow up in a financially stable household, but I know many others—especially children—don’t have that same privilege. They need the help more, and this is one way I can give back.”
Her father, Aaron, echoed the family’s pride.
“Alicia has always been caring in her schooling and social life. She is well loved by all her friends and family for her warmth and kind nature. Her family, peers and colleagues always turn to her for sound advice and know her as a great listener. She connected deeply with this foundation, particularly as both her parents grew up in the Westcliff area. She saw this as a meaningful way to give back to the community we came from,” he said.
Balancing studies, work and sport is no easy task, but Alicia remains determined. “The only challenge I experience is when I don’t feel like training—then I have to push myself and power through the session,” she said.
Alicia plans to continue this fundraiser annually in the hope of making a lasting impact in her community. She encourages other swimmers to dive in with her and be part of the change.
Craig Naidoo, chairperson of the Westcliff Hope Foundation, expressed heartfelt gratitude for Alicia’s efforts.
“At the Westcliff Hope Foundation, we aim to provide a safe space and assist our residents in whatever way we can. Through residents like Alicia, we see that the spirit of uBuntu—oneness and togetherness—is something Westcliff truly radiates,” he said.
