Pau Ribes wanted to be a synchronized swimmer since he watched his first show at the age of 7. Unfortunately, at the time, synchronized swimming was a sport only practiced professionally by women. Still, he didn’t give up on his passion, with the help of Panteres Grogues—a nonprofit dedicated to helping the LGBT community succeed in sports. In 2015, Ribes made his debut on the world stage, marking the first time men were allowed to compete on an international level. He hopes to continue swimming and smashing barriers, with the goal of one day being able to compete in the Olympics.