Life After Padi Women’s Day from Zero to Hero
PADI WOMEN’S DAY AT BLUE CORNER DIVE LEMBONGAN
My journey with the marine world has continued to evolve since completing the PWD BC programme, and today I would like to share a little about what has happened since then, where I am now, the valuable experiences I have gained, and how Padi Women's Day from Zero to Hero became the gateway to this extraordinary journey. Joining the PWD programme was a very important first step in my journey. Here, I not only learned about the basics of marine science, ecosystems, and diving, but also gained a new perspective on the role of the younger generation in preserving the health of the oceans. This programme opened doors of opportunity, built my confidence, and instilled a passion to continue working in Indonesia's maritime world. PWD was not just a training programme for me; it was a starting point, a foundation, and a new family.
After completing the programme, I began my professional journey with an internship at PT Qyudos. There, I deepened my technical skills, particularly related to ocean currents, tides, and their applications in oceanography and marine science. During my time at Qyudos, I was involved in data processing and gained an understanding of how ocean dynamics can affect various sectors, from the environment to marine survey activities. This experience reinforced the knowledge I gained at PWD BC, while also introducing me to the real world of work in the maritime industry. Learning directly from field experts provided a new perspective on the importance of observation, precision, and scientific understanding in marine area management.
Currently, I am continuing my journey through an internship programme at Reshark Indonesia, an organisation focused on shark conservation and marine ecosystem health. I am stationed in Misool, West Papua, one of the most beautiful marine paradises in the world. Every day, I dive to observe the natural ecosystem and document biodiversity. In addition, I continue to add to my dive log while witnessing first-hand the behaviour of marine megafauna in their natural habitat. My experience in Misool has not only enriched my diving experience, but also strengthened my commitment to conservation efforts. Working at Reshark has given me a real opportunity to be involved in the protection of important species and to gain insight into how conservation is carried out in the field, an invaluable experience.
In addition to my internship, I am currently completing my final research project at Reshark. This research focuses on marine megafauna, specifically through the use of BRUVs (Baited Remote Underwater Video Stations). This method allows us to record large marine animals using underwater cameras with bait, providing valuable data for understanding the presence and behaviour of megafauna in conservation areas. The research is planned to begin in November, and I hope the results will contribute significantly to megafauna conservation efforts, especially sharks and rays in the Misool area.
Today, I continue to learn, dive, research, and contribute. My hope is simple: to be part of a generation of Indonesian ocean guardians who not only enjoy its beauty but also fight for its preservation. I believe that with knowledge, concrete action, and a supportive community, we can preserve Indonesia's marine wealth for the future.
Thank you to all my mentors, the PWD Blue Corner team, and everyone on this journey. This story has only just begun, and I can't wait to see where the waves take me next.