A day to celebrate! A Dive Instructor is born!

Holy Nemo, what a journey… when I first decided to take up the challenge of becoming a Dive Instructor I didn’t really know what I was getting into. Thanks to my family and former boss and friend Sam Noija from Just Dive Croatia, who kind of pushed me in the right direction and gave me the confidence to do it. Without their support, I doubt I would be standing here today with a shiny certificate in my hands and be able to call myself proudly a PADI Instructor. Along my training path, as expected, I did make mistakes and my hopes were shrinking on being able to pass the final tests. On that note I believe I may dare to say that I was not alone. My fellow course participants Miriam and Christian, both excellent divers and with a lot of experience, were also plagued by self-doubts and the all surrounding fear of hearing “you failed” from the examiner. Thanks to our Course Director Farid Abdel-Al and Staff Instructor Tino, not only did we not give up, but emerged as champions. I believe this really shows what a good Course Director can make ... one that doesn't make it seem like passing a final test is the only goal, but teaches you to be willing to take on the responsibility of getting a beginner underwater and teaching in a way that instills confidence and the drive for more. A huge thank you to Farid and Tino for all your tips and support, I will do my best to make them and everyone that hold their thumbs up for me proud. To my fellow course participants: may Fortuna be always on your side!

