What is your favorite travel memory?
Learning to SCUBA dive at age 12 in Malaysia. My sister and I used to go snorkelling lots together and loved swimming around looking for reef sharks (they used to be common on the reefs!) So when I started diving I was hooked - able to stay longer underwater than just my breath would allow... I knew at that age I wanted to become a divemaster as soon as I was old enough and then study marine biology.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
We continue improving our programs based on feedback from students. Over the years we have developed a more research driven approach to our conservation work. I have developed teaching curriculums that are science-based yet have lots of hands-on practical skills. My biggest joy is seeing students excited to learn and enjoy these programs I have developed.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
Several of our students have gone on to start their own coral restoration projects and conservation organizations. For example one student started a coral restoration project in Raja Ampat, another runs a project in Ecuador, and others are working on coral restoration projects throughout Indonesia, Thailand and Australia.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
My passion is coral restoration so I believe our coral restoration workshops are some of the best and most comprehensive training programs on offer. The week-long coral restoration workshop consists of classroom sessions as well as practical in-water training on how to develop and maintain a restoration site.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
We have been continuously working on a coral restoration project on a reef that was previously dead rubble, now after 5 years this reef is full of life and a popular dive & snorkel site. Seeing this area change into a healthy ecosystem is one of the most satisfying things. Students often return to see how their efforts have come along over time.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
Our staff is professional and genuine we work great together as a team to make sure students and guests have a great experience. We all live diving and love the ocean environment, so our team's passion gets passed on to students. Blue Corner's fun team atmosphere is one of its biggest keys to being a successful company.