In Kent, U.K., two students from Sevenoaks School have completed an extraordinary 66-kilometer charity swim in support of Rainforest Trust, turning a demanding physical challenge into a powerful display of teamwork, resilience, and commitment to protecting the planet.

On November 8, students Frederik Find and Chengze Duan set out to swim the equivalent distance of the English Channel — 66 kilometers in total — inside the school’s pool in Kent. The friends, both passionate about conservation, launched the effort as part of the Swim for Tomorrow initiative to raise funds and awareness for Rainforest Trust’s mission to safeguard threatened rainforests, ecosystems, and species around the world.

For twelve hours, the pair pushed through fatigue, sore muscles, and the mental strain of the long-distance challenge. Classmates, teachers, and supporters cheered them on poolside and online, celebrating each milestone along the way. Chengze and Frederik split the momentous task. Chengze reached his 33-kilometre goal earlier in the day, while Frederik continued into the final stretch of the full 66-kilometer distance.

With just six kilometers remaining, three friends joined Frederik in the water to help him finish. This spontaneous moment of solidarity highlighted the camaraderie driving the entire event. Together, they completed the full distance, embodying the shared spirit of determination and hope behind the fundraiser.

“Frederik and Chengze have demonstrated the very best of what young leadership looks like:  courage, commitment, and an unwavering belief that their actions can help protect our planet,” said Rainforest Trust CEO James Deutsch. “Their 66-kilometer swim was not only a remarkable physical achievement, but a powerful reminder that anyone, at any age, can make a meaningful difference. We are deeply grateful for their passion and to everyone who supported them along the way.”

As donations continue to grow, the impact of the swim reaches far beyond the school pool,  proving that even small teams can make a meaningful difference when they work together for a shared cause.