Exploring the underwater world is something few get to experience, but even fewer have achieved what young Elyse Sakelaropoulos has. At just 12 years old, Elyse became a PADI Junior Master Scuba Diver! An accomplishment like this places her among the most elite divers, especially young divers. But for Elyse, this was just the beginning of an extraordinary underwater journey. In this article, we’ll dive into her inspiring PADI® story and discover what keeps her going as an ocean lover.
The Young Diver’s Journey Begins
Elyse, who is a student at United World College of South East Asia in Singapore, started exploring the underwater world when she was eight years old. Her first experience was the PADI Bubblemaker ® Program and she was instantly hooked.
She went on to complete all her PADI Seal Team® AquaMissions until she turned 10 and was able to complete her PADI Junior Open Water Diver certification. Since then, she’s grabbed every opportunity to dive. She’s completed a wide range of specialties – Emergency Oxygen Provider, Digital Underwater Photographer, PADI AWARE Specialty and Underwater Navigator just to name a few!
Diving into the Elite Rating
When she came to visit us at ‘Manta Watch Camp,’ in Papua New Guinea, she was eager to continue her diving. Elyse completed her Junior Advanced Open Water Diver course and Junior Rescue Diver course with us, and just a few days after her 12th birthday (the minimum age required) she became a PADI Junior Master Scuba Diver!
Elyse’s dedication to diving is not limited to great diving skills, excellent buoyancy and incredible rescue skills. She demonstrates a willingness to learn about, protect and identify as many marine animals and critters as possible. In 2014, Elyse was introduced to nudibranchs by Dr Terry Gosliner. Her fascination for this particular species and desire to learn more continues to grow. She keeps track of all the species she has seen in her personal nudibranch ID book. Elyse also has her very own nudibranch ‘bucket list’, listing those she still hopes to see.
It’s been a privilege to be a part of Elyse’s scuba journey, and I look forward to seeing where her journey takes her.
Kids in Diving
Did you know kids as young as 8 years old can learn to scuba dive? Learning to scuba dive at a young age builds confidence and teaches valuable life skills. It’s also a great way for kids to foster deep appreciation for the ocean, leading to interest in ocean conservation. Find out more about the PADI Bubblemaker ® Program, PADI Seal Team®, and requirements needed for the Junior Open Water Diver course.
Did You Hear About the MSD Challenge?
The MSD Challenge gives divers a unique chance to take their skills to the next level. It’s not just about achieving the Master Scuba Diver™ rating, aka the ‘black belt’ of recreational scuba diving! It’s about growth and safety as a diver, gaining confidence, and creating lifelong memories beneath the surface. By entering, you stand a chance to win incredible prizes that make the experience even more rewarding.
Guest post by PADI IDC Staff Instructor Carmen Toanchina
