An-Sofie's Journey: From Novice to Divemaster

Where are you from and how did you start diving?

Hi! I'm (An-)Sofie, and I'm from Belgium. My diving journey began back in 2021 during a trip around southern Europe. I booked an open water course in Malta, and I was hooked immediately! The underwater world captivated me, and I knew I wanted to explore more.

What made you decide to embark on the Divemaster course?

Ever since my open water course, I felt a strong urge to start a professional diving career. However, I had my doubts. Would diving still feel magical if I had to take care of others? Would it be as enjoyable? Doing my Divemaster course seemed like the perfect way to address these concerns. I wanted to see if my fears were valid or just a figment of my imagination.

The Magic of Diving

Diving is not just about being underwater; it's about the experiences we share. Every dive is unique. The thrill of discovering new marine life, the serenity of the ocean, and the joy of sharing these moments with others are what make diving special.

What was your favourite part/highlight of the training?

One of my favourite parts of the training was assisting with Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) sessions and open water courses. Being part of someone's first steps underwater is truly magical! Sharing our beautiful oceans with people who have never experienced them before is a joy like no other. It’s incredible to witness their excitement and wonder.

What was your biggest challenge and how did the team help you overcome this?

The currents around Nusa Penida were something I had never experienced before. I found the feeling of not being in control quite challenging! The instructors at Purple Dive Penida taught me how to manage these currents physically. They also reminded me that sometimes, you just have to "go with the flow." While that advice wasn’t entirely new, it helped calm my nerves and allowed me to enjoy the experience more.

Where are you working now and what is your current role?

Currently, I am still travelling, but my doubts about being a dive professional have vanished. Thanks to the Divemaster course, I am now 100% certain that I will take the next steps in my professional journey. I will soon be working as a PADI Divemaster/Instructor!

What is your best dive to this day?

Every second underwater feels like a dream. However, seeing a Mola Mola out of season on my first dive as a Divemaster Trainee (DMT) is definitely one of my top moments. The sheer size and grace of these creatures left me in awe.

The Future of Diving

As I look ahead, I am excited about the opportunities that await me in the diving world. Each dive brings new challenges and experiences. I can't wait to share my passion for diving with others.

Conclusion

Embarking on the Divemaster journey has been transformative. It has not only solidified my love for diving but also opened doors to a career I am eager to pursue. If you're considering taking the plunge into professional diving, I wholeheartedly encourage you to go for it. The underwater world is waiting for you!

Remember, diving is not just a hobby; it's a way of life. So gear up, dive in, and let the ocean work its magic on you!