Behind the Goggles with Keira Stephens
We sat down with Paralympic swimmer, Keira Stephens OAM, to chat all things swimming, snacks, and the unexpected chaos of racing with an AirPod in (yep, really). From her first big break to her proudest podiums, Keira shares her journey and some fun surprises along the way. Let’s dive in!
Q1: We hear you started competitive para-swimming in 2015 and quickly made it to the international stage by 2018. What were those early years like for you, and was there a pivotal moment that changed everything?
I was only 15 when I made my first Australian team, and I still remember the moment I got the call, it honestly didn’t feel real. Having my mum and childhood swim teacher in the stands made it even more special. That first team taught me so much about what it meant to race for your country and back yourself on a bigger stage. It was such a turning point. I went from just loving swimming to wanting to see how far I could really go, and wanting to be the best in the world.
Q2: Winning bronze in the 100m breaststroke SB9 at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and gold in the mixed 4x100m medley relay at Paris 2024 are incredible achievements. How did these experiences shape your perspective on competition and teamwork?
Tokyo was my first Paralympics. I was young, fearless, and just so excited to race. I knew I had a medal in me and gave everything I had right to the finish. I’d come off a great training block and went in confident. Standing on that podium was the most surreal, addictive feeling. It’s something you never forget, and once you’ve had it, you just want it again. Paris was a whole different vibe. The crowd was electric, and I absolutely loved the experience.
Q3: Balancing elite sports and academics is no small feat. How has studying social media marketing influenced your approach to your athletic career?
Studying social media marketing has helped me so much as an athlete. It’s made me more intentional about how I share my journey and the kind of message I want to put out there. I’ve realised how powerful storytelling can be, especially in para sport, and how it can inspire and educate at the same time. I also just genuinely love creating content; I really enjoy it. It’s something that lets me express who I am beyond the pool, and it’s opened up opportunities I never would’ve expected.
Q4: Looking ahead, what goals are you chasing at the moment?
Right now, I’m rehabbing my back to make sure I do everything I can to protect my body properly and return to full, pain-free training. After a year of dealing with injury, I’ve realised how important it is to take care of both my body and mind. I’m learning to be kinder to myself when things happen outside of my control. My eyes are firmly set on the 2026 Commonwealth Games and the LA 2028 Paralympics. As much as slowing down is hard sometimes, I know I need to do this rehab work now so I can come back stronger than ever and achieve my goals.
Q5: What advice would you give to young athletes facing challenges similar to yours?
Be kind to yourself on the hard days, and don’t let setbacks shake your worth. A time doesn’t define who you are or how much you matter to the people around you. You’re more than your results. Keep showing up, surround yourself with people who lift you up, and remember, your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Trust that everything happens for a reason, even the things that feel unfair at the time. Just make sure you’re happy and enjoying what you do. Life’s too short not to!
Q6: What does being a JAYD Ambassador mean to you, and how do you hope to inspire others through this role?
I honestly love my JAYD togs. They’re so comfy and just so pretty. But more than that, I love what JAYD stands for and the community they’ve created. Being part of a brand that celebrates strength, confidence, and diversity means so much to me. I’m proud to represent something that aligns with who I am, and I hope I can inspire others to feel confident in their own skin and know they’re enough, just as they are.
Q7: If you could have any superpower (besides swimming like a dolphin), what would it be?
I’d love to be able to talk to my dog, Coco. She’s got such a personality, and I just know she has opinions about everything. I feel like the conversations would be iconic, and a little bit savage. I’d love to know what goes on in her little head - hahaha
Q8: What’s your favourite post-training snack or meal?
I’m a sucker for an egg and bacon roll. Simple, but so good after a hard session. Add a vanilla iced latte and I’m in heaven. Or Justine’s lamb and potatoes, you can’t beat that.
Q9: If you weren’t a swimmer, what sport would you love to try?
Probably netball. I used to love it when I was younger. I played before swimming took over, and there was just something about being part of a team on court that I really enjoyed. I’d love to see what I could’ve done with it if I’d kept going.
Q10: What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
Most people don’t know I was born in the UK. I also lived in New Zealand for a bit before moving to Australia when I was two, so I’ve kind of been all over!
Q12: Can you share a funny or unexpected moment from your swimming career?
One time I raced with my AirPod still in. I was so focused on getting behind the blocks that I didn’t even realise until I dove in.... by then, it was too late. Safe to say it didn’t survive, but at least I swam well! Definitely one of my more chaotic moments.
