Making Waves – Michael Laniyan on leading with purpose, building with passion

When Michael Laniyan stood poolside watching his young son swim lessons a decade ago, he had no idea it would change the course of his life.

A few curious glances turned into conversations, then a trial, and soon both father and son were immersed in the world of competitive swimming.

10 years later, Michael is now the Chair of Newham and UEL Swimming Club, Vice President of Swim England London, Chair of Swim England Essex and a living example of representation in action.

“I got asked to chair a meeting,” he laughs. “That was it. That’s how it started. Now it’s basically a full-time job.”

Balancing leadership and legacy

Michael has never approached his volunteer work half-heartedly.

As a single parent supporting his son through swimming, he adapted his routine to meet 5.30am starts, multiple weekly sessions and a schedule many would find exhausting.

But his approach, consistent, values-driven and unrelenting, is also what’s made his leadership so effective.

“You’re not just chairing meetings,” he explains. “You’re managing coaches, engaging parents, negotiating with pool providers. You have to be all in.”

That commitment saw the club not only survive the Covid-19 pandemic, which slashed membership numbers in half, but thrive in its aftermath.

From 60 swimmers during lockdown, the club now boasts 240 active members. Its growth grounded in trust, transparency and vision.

 Representation that matters

As a Black man in a senior leadership role within British aquatics, Michael doesn’t downplay the importance of visibility.

“When people see someone like me, someone at the top, it matters,” he says. “Young people need to know that this is possible. That they are possible.”

Michael has also served for over a decade as a school governor and former Chair of a local governing board, making his commitment to community uplift unmistakable.

His message on representation is clear: “We don’t just need athletes. We need administrators, coaches, officials and we need them to reflect the communities we serve.”

While he values initiatives like Black History Month, Michael sees true success in consistent, year-round engagement.

“Even if one person is reached, it’s worth it. But what we need is to spotlight these stories all year, so young swimmers, parents and future leaders know what’s possible.”