Hi, I'm Nikolas Sylvester

Proud Vincentian. Former national swimmer and Olympian for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

For most of my swimming journey, I faced the same challenge many young swimmers on our island face today — getting to and from the national aquatic center on the windward side while living on the leeward side.

There were many mornings I struggled to find the drive to get up at 4 a.m. and make the hour-long trip to the pool, or had to sacrifice afternoon commitments because of the distance and traffic. But I pushed through — representing my country on multiple international stages. It was worth every stroke.

The Challenge

Today, I see a new generation of swimmers from the H2O Lions Swim Academy facing that same struggle.

They’re a small, passionate group of talented young swimmers who love the sport, but limited access to facilities has forced them to practice on a beach near my home — a place without lanes, timing systems, or proper safety infrastructure.

That breaks my heart — because I’ve been in their shoes.

My Goal

I have a pool at my home that’s currently inoperative, and I want to restore, develop, and equip it so it becomes a safe, structured training space for the H2O Lions team.

Your support will help cover:

• Pool upgrades (plumbing, drainage, starting blocks, sand filter, pool pump, cleaning equipment, chemicals, safety equipment, pool paint)

• Basic maintenance and improvements for regular use

• Training tools — kickboards, fins, paddles, stroke aids

• Shelter and a small storage area for equipment

This project will allow these young swimmers to train consistently and safely — without the transportation barrier that limits their growth.

Why It Matters

Swimming changed my life.
It taught me discipline, perseverance, and national pride.

It made me who I am today — and I want to give these young swimmers the same opportunity to dream, to train, and to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines with pride.

This isn’t just about a pool. It’s about building a legacy and keeping the fire of young dreams alive.

How You Can Help

Every contribution, big or small, makes a ripple that turns into a wave.

If you can’t donate, please share this campaign with friends, family, or anyone who believes in the power of sports to change lives.

Together, we can give the H2O Lions a proper place to train — and turn their dreams into reality.

Thank You

From one islander to the world — thank you for helping make this vision possible.

Let’s build something that lasts beyond medals… a community of swimmers who can finally call somewhere home.

– Nikolas Sylvester
Olympian | St. Vincent and the Grenadines