Egin
“I feel incredibly happy and proud to be part of the Raja Ampat Dive Guide School. Through this school, I’ve gained so many valuable experiences. Not only have I achieved my dream job as a Dive Guide, but I’ve also been able to help support my family financially. But above all, what truly matters to me is being a role model for the younger generation, encouraging them to take part in protecting our environment. Because, in addition to diving, we also learn a great deal about conservation, coral reefs, and the steps we must take to preserve our surroundings.
As a Sunday School teacher for children in the village, I want to pass on the knowledge I’ve gained at the Raja Ampat Dive Guide School to them—our future generation, who will inherit the natural treasures of Raja Ampat. I hope they will grow up with a deep sense of responsibility and love for the environment, and continue the work we’re doing today to protect this beautiful place.”
Ester
“As the youngest child, I was used to receiving everything I needed from my parents and older siblings. But I didn’t want to rely on them forever—I wanted to prove that I could do something that would make them proud. That’s why I decided to join the Raja Ampat Dive Guide School. I had been waiting for a long time for the opportunity to receive diving training, and finally, that chance came this year. Ever since I was a child, I’ve been inspired to become a Dive Guide after watching my older sibling, who is also a Dive Guide.
The past six months at this school have not been easy, especially after spending so many years doing nothing but the daily routines at home. But with the help and support of the teachers and instructors, I was able to push through and complete the course.
Now, after six months, I have successfully become a Dive Guide, and this is my very first job. I am incredibly happy and proud. The moment I received my first paycheck, I immediately gave it all to my mother and father as a way of saying thank you for everything she has done for me.”
Yotam
“Before, I worked at Papua Explorers as a helper. Every day, I would watch the Dive Guides getting ready to head to the Dive Center. I could only dream and hope that one day, I would be able to join them.
It was a dream that seemed so far out of reach, but through the Raja Ampat Dive Guide School, I’ve been able to turn that dream into reality. I am deeply grateful for this school, as it has given me the opportunity to become the Dive Guide I once admired from afar.
I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has helped me along the way—my instructors, my teachers, and all those who believed in me. Thanks to them, my dream has come true. Today, I’m a Dive Guide, living a life I once only dreamed about. I will carry this gratitude with me always.”
Yuni
“As a mother from a remote island, I’ve always dreamed of doing something more with my life. But as a mother, I often felt like my dreams were put on hold because of family responsibilities. I wanted to show my children that no matter where you come from, no matter how small your village is, you can still achieve your dreams. I wanted to prove that a mother, from a remote island, can make a difference and follow her dreams.
When I heard about the Raja Ampat Dive Guide School, I knew this was the opportunity I had been waiting for. It wasn’t easy, balancing my duties as a mother and a trainee, but I pushed myself because I wanted to show my children that it’s never too late to dream and work hard for those dreams.
Now, I’ve completed the course and become a Dive Guide. I’m proud to show my children that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and never give up. My dream has come true, and I hope it will inspire other mothers like me to follow their own paths, no matter where they come from.”
Soleman
Diving had always been my passion, but I never thought someone like me—someone too shy to even talk to a friend—could become a Dive Guide. I was afraid of failing, of not being good enough. But then, the Raja Ampat Dive Guide School came into my life, and it changed everything.
The training was tough, and at times, I doubted myself. But every instructor, every dive, every lesson pushed me further. I learned not just about diving, but about who I am and what I’m capable of. The school gave me the tools to overcome my fears and helped me build the confidence I never knew I had.
Today, I am proud to say I’m a Dive Guide. I’ve come so far from that shy person who used to stand on the side lines. The journey was not easy, but it was worth every moment. I’m incredibly grateful to the Raja Ampat Dive Guide School for helping me achieved my dream.”