Nadiya first matched with the Ohio State University’s artistic swimming program through Team IMPACT in 2024, when she was 14 years old. For the past two years, she has been involved in much more than practices and meets—she joined a community that welcomed her with open arms.
Nadiya is fully blind due to a genetic disorder, but her teammate Taylor makes sure she is always informed. Since they met, Taylor has made it her mission to ensure Nadiya feels included, informed, and valued as a member of the team.
“Taylor has taken the time at every practice and meet to come over to Nadiya, always making sure she introduces herself first,” Nadiya’s mom, Michelle, shared. “This is key as Nadiya is fully blind and sometimes identifying people by only voice is a challenge.”
Taylor’s consistent thoughtfulness has helped create a special bond between the pair. At every swim meet, Taylor makes sure Nadiya can follow the action in the pool by describing what is happening. This began as a simple act of inclusion, but it laid out the foundation for a meaningful friendship built on trust, understanding, and genuine care.
“Taylor always takes the time to say hi, and she always describes everything that is going on in every OSU meet because I can’t see it,” Nadiya said. “At OSU team meals, Taylor helps me get food. I like how she walks me through the line and describes all the food that is there, and she sits next to me too.”
For Nadiya, the little moments matter. Taylor’s care allows Nadiya to not only navigate events, but to fully participate in them.
Their friendship extends far beyond the pool. When Nadiya’s family visited Niagara Falls over the summer, Taylor was home nearby in Buffalo. Despite being on her summer break, she made it a point to meet up with Nadiya for dinner. Taylor has even introduced Nadiya to her mom, adding another layer to their relationship. Gestures that may seem small for Taylor make a huge difference for Nadiya, building her confidence and sense of belonging.
Taylor has supported Nadiya in both the good moments, and the disappointing ones, reminding her of her value after Nadiya participated in her school’s goalball team. Taylor displays the meaning of being a teammate, showing up every moment.
The impact of Taylor’s friendship is shown through how she acts. She includes Nadiya without making her feel different and offers support without taking away Nadiya’s independence. Through the small and intentional acts, she ensures that Nadiya experiences every moment as a true member of OSU Artistic Swim.
The connection between the pair is so strong that when asked who she would like to be placed next to in the team locker room, her answer was immediate: Taylor. Through Team IMPACT, Nadiya gained a team. In Taylor, she gained a friend who makes sure no moment goes unseen.