Marileen, a native of South Africa, has resided in Dubai since 2022. Growing up in a neighborhood with a private pool,she developed a lifelong passion for swimming from a young age. Her early experiences socializing with friends around the pool fostered a natural affinity for the aquatic environment.

Inspired by her own childhood, Marileen enrolled her son in swimming lessons at the tender age of nine months.Unfortunately, a minor pool accident led to a temporary fear of water, which persisted until the age of four. To overcome this obstacle and ensure her son’s safety and enjoyment, Marileen made the decision to re-enroll him in swimming lessons.

After a successful career in the corporate world, Marileen sought a career change that would allow her to pursue her passion for working with children, particularly infants and toddlers. In 2024, she completed the STA Award in Teaching Swimming Course to become a certified swim coach. Her goal is to help children develop essential water safety skills and a lifelong love of swimming.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 2020 STA Level 2 Award in Teaching Swimming

• 2024 First Aid, CPR and AED

• 2024 Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults in the Aquatic Environment

• 2024 STA International Baby and Pre-School Course (currently enrolled)

INTERESTS:

• Sewing 
• Baking
• Reading
• The Gym