Diversity and Inclusion: Min Henry

MIN HENRY has been nominated for this year’s Diversity and Inclusion award, sponsored by RBC and Liberate.

In November 2020, Min founded Guernsey Swim All Seasons and was described as ‘one of the most humble, selfless people you could meet’ by nominators Melanie Harvey-Alan and Rob Turville.

‘Min is central to the group, having no hierarchy, no prejudices, and no elitism,’ they said. ‘We are all equals, no matter our background, age, gender, fitness levels or experience. The group is very much self-made, but in Min’s image.

‘GSAS is like one big family, but it is all down to her.’

The GSAS Facebook group now has 2,000 members, all of whom Min helps to feel welcome.

‘Min understands the challenges of being a newcomer to sea swimming and will take newcomers on one-to-one introductions to ease any anxieties. In group swims we have the comfort of swimming with like-minded, supportive people.

‘Min has a passion for year-round sea swimming and wants to share and enjoy it with everyone. She has overcome personal issues and, through the group, wants to help everyone to not be afraid, to live a better life, and to love swimming all year round.’

They added: ‘Mental wellbeing is very important to Min and Guernsey Mind is the group’s chosen charity for any profit made from events – particularly cakes, a must post-swims.

‘The mental health benefits of open water swimming are well documented, and we are all hugely grateful to Min for setting up this group, as it is the best possible therapy.’