Ashley Semmens Set to Conquer the English Channel: Raising funds for the Navy Clearance Diver Trust

 

Conquering the English Channel 

In June 2025, Ashley Semmens will be stepping into the unforgiving waters of the English Channel, taking on one of the most iconic and challenging endurance feats in the world. The English Channel is notorious for its unpredictable conditions, freezing temperatures, and relentless currents. At 34km, the Channel crossing will involve finning for more than 15 hours.  

However, this journey is far beyond a test of mental and physical limits – it’s about raising awareness and critical funds for the Navy Clearance Diver Trust. The swim symbolises the immense challenges faced by Nacy Clearance Divers, risking their lives with dangerous tasks including underwater engineering, explosive ordnance disposal, and search and rescue operations. 

The Navy Clearance Diver Trust provides essential support to these divers and their families such as mental health assurance, financial support, and career transition programs. 


 

Ashley Semmens

 

Ashley Semmens 

Chief Petty Officer (ret’d) Ashley Semmens is an 18-year military veteran and co-founder of WeRise Collective. He is an expert in leadership, strategy, and community empowerment with a passion for mentoring and driving social impact. In 2025, Ashley is set to be the first person to swim the English Channel, raising awareness and vital funds for the Navy Clearance Diver Trust. Untapped are proud to sponsor and support Ashley finning the English Channel. 

 

Untapped’s Involvement 

Untapped are incredibly proud to be sponsoring Ashley in this remarkable journey across the English Channel, and to join him in supporting the Navy Clearance Diver Trust. We are inspired by Ashley’s passion and drive to support and honour their service and look forward to Ashley’s monumental swim across the English Channel in June of this year. 

 

Support the Cause 

To our community interested in further supporting the cause, you can make a difference in the following ways: 

  • Supporting through donations to the Navy Clearance Diver Trust:

  • Following Ashley’s journey as he prepares for the enduring swim 

  • Raising awareness about the critical work of Navy Clearance Diver Trust 

 

Want to learn more about Untapped’s work with Veterans? Reach out to us at contact@untapped-talent.com 

Jacob Ballagh