Longtime Swim Instructor Becomes
British Swim School Franchise Owner
Jacqui Balbuena Represents the BSS Path to Great Success
After more than 14 years of being a high-demand swim instructor, Jacqueline Balbuena has become a British Swim School franchise owner. Balbuena partnered up with successful franchise owners Howard and Sarah Berkowitz to co-own locations in Boca Raton, Delray and Deerfield, Florida. In a 50/50 ownership split, Howard takes the lead on the business side of the operation and Jacqui is the on-site aquatics lead.
Born and raised in Lima, Peru, Balbuena moved to the U.S in 2000 and has been working with Rita Goldberg and British Swim School since 2001. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Recreation and Sport Management from Florida International University.
As she learned all the different swimming techniques from the early group of British swim instructors, Jacqui saw the amazing results and how kids became increasingly more comfortable in the water. She then realized that she wanted to be part of all this for the rest of her life.
“I have wanted to have my own school since then, but I was waiting for the right time to do it,” said Balbuena. “Therefore, I studied and prepared myself with the enough experience and knowledge to become a great aquatic director and offer the best water experience to my customers.”
The franchise owners in the British Swim School family have a passion for swimming, kids and saving lives, and Jacqui is no different. She is adamant that drowning is preventable and believes everyone should know the proper techniques.
“Jacqui is the type of instructor who is requested consistently because of her skills and excellent rapport with the kids,” shared Berkowitz. “She has truly saved countless lives and this business is her calling.”
British Swim School, the leading swim school in the U.S., has franchises in nine states and more than 75 pools. To find a nearby British Swim School, visit https://britishswimschool.com/find-your-pool/.
“I am a simple Peruvian girl who made her dream come true,” added Balbuena. “I am very happy and privileged to be part of British Swim School; I hope to continue to grow in this business and save more lives around the world.”
