Toronto, ON | April 2026 — Marathon swimmer Lev Goldberg, the first openly transgender person to swim across Lake Ontario, is returning to the Great Lakes. In August 2026, Goldberg will attempt a 55km crossing of Lake Huron, the next stage of his historic campaign to become the first openly trans person to swim all five Great Lakes.
Alongside the Lake Huron crossing, Goldberg is renewing his partnership with LGBT YouthLine, a peer-led support service for 2SLGBTQ+ youth across Ontario. The successful 2025 partnership raised enough funds to donate $7,000 directly to LGBT YouthLine. This year, the 55km for Trans Visibility Partnership will again raise funds for LGBT YouthLine, and will hold events to introduce swimming and open water swimming to queer youth.
“After just three years of training, I accomplished my Lake Ontario swim. Open water swimming is now my passion, and it’s exciting to be a visibly trans person in this space, becoming that representation for others where previously I had seen very little,” said Goldberg.
Goldberg and LGBT YouthLine will be raising funds through a GoFundMe campaign. Every dollar above the logistical costs for the swim goes directly to YouthLine’s peer support programs.
“This partnership is about more than visibility. It’s about material support for youth who deserve care, safety, and connection,” said Lauren Pragg, YouthLine’s Executive Director. “We’re excited to stand with Lev and show what solidarity in action looks like.”
GoFundMe Fundraiser Now Live
The fundraiser campaign is now live on GoFundMe. Money raised through this fundraiser will cover the necessary costs for Goldberg’s Lake Huron swim including boats, safety gear, and crew. Funds above actual cost will be donated directly to LGBT YouthLine to support their vital peer services.
About LGBT YouthLine
YouthLine is a provincial youth-led organization offering confidential peer support for 2SLGBTQ+ youth in Ontario through a text, chat, and email Helpline. Staffed entirely by queer and trans youth, YouthLine builds affirming spaces rooted in care, justice, and solidarity.
To learn more, visit youthline.ca.
About Lev Goldberg
In 2025, Lev Goldberg made history with his 51km for Trans Visibility campaign to raise funds for queer youth services and promote inclusion in outdoor and athletic spaces. He successfully completed a marathon swim across Lake Ontario, swimming 51.5km in 24 hours, 25 minutes, and 15 seconds.
To learn more, visit levswimslakes.ca.
Media Inquiries
Media inquiries and interview requests may be directed to the contact page. Photos available upon request.