How Diving Has Changed My Life! - Ashlyn Slone
Ashlyn Slone Jan 04, 2025
Diving into the underwater world is like stepping into another universe. As a 16-year-old girl, it’s not exactly common to meet people my age—or gender—sharing my passion for scuba diving. It’s a sport often dominated by older, more experienced men, which can feel a bit intimidating at times. But for me, every dive is a step closer to my dream: working in marine animal conservation.
I remember my first dive like it was yesterday. I was 14 and randomly saw a poster for scuba certification courses at a resort my family was staying at in Turks and Caicos. Immediately I signed up to be certified (and pressured my mom into signing up too). The second I began breathing through my regulator, I fell in love with diving. I spent the rest of my vacation miles from the shoreline diving alongside my mom.
Being a young diver has its challenges. I’ve had to work hard to prove myself in a community where youth and gender can sometimes lead to being underestimated. It’s not uncommon to be the only teenage girl on a boat full of seasoned divers. But instead of letting that discourage me, I’ve turned it into motivation. I listen, I learn, and I show up with the same level of passion and commitment as anyone else.
I’ve also met some amazing mentors along the way who see my dedication and share their knowledge generously. The day I walked into Ohana I felt at home. Everyone here is so supportive! They’ve helped me from picking out my wetsuit to perfecting my buoyancy. The staff here is one of the main reasons I continue to pursue diving; I know for all my dive questions they have the answers!
The ocean needs more voices speaking up for it, and I hope mine can inspire others—especially young people and girls—to take the plunge. Diving isn’t just about exploring; it’s about protecting. If I can inspire just one person to see the beauty beneath the waves and take action to protect it, then I know I’m on the right path.
Every time I resurface, I’m reminded why I started. The ocean has given me so much, and I’m determined to give back—one dive at a time!
Ashlyn Slone