In an interview with PADI Divemaster Mary NG of Diving Express, a PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Centre/Career Development Centre in Kowloon, Hongkong, tells us what draws her to the ocean.

PADI Asia Pacific: Describe a typical day in your working life as a PADI Divemaster.

Mary Ng: Apart from performing boat duties, such as handling logistics of rental dive equipment and briefing divers on boat facilities and dive sites, I also assist the PADI Instructors in different courses and activities. I enjoy being the tour guide for the fun divers.

PADI Asia Pacific: When and where did you start diving?

Ng: Two years ago I got a chance to go to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, for a short vacation and my friend suggested going diving. I still remember the feeling when I first descended in the swimming pool; it was amazing.

PADI Asia Pacific: What made you choose to become a PADI Professional?

Ng: As I started taking more diving courses and gaining more knowledge and skills, I felt more confident and started to enjoy exploring the incredible underwater world. My passion for diving led me to pursue a more serious role, encouraging more people to enjoy diving as much as I do.

PADI Asia Pacific: When and where did you become a PADI Divemaster?

Ng: This year in Hong Kong.

PADI Asia Pacific: What highlights do you recall from your PADI Divemaster course?

Ng: I’ve always loved the culture within the diving community and that people share their experiences with others. Through this course, I had the chance to make friends with many experienced divers and PADI Instructors who have generously shared information about marine life, teaching techniques, diving equipment and travelling tips, etc.

PADI Asia Pacific: What dive locations are on your bucket list and why?

Ng: Galapagos, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Yap, Turk & Caicos, The Great Barrier Reef, The Red Sea…I love travelling to different countries and experiencing different ways of life, so I guess it also applies to the underwater world.

PADI Asia Pacific: What has been the most memorable dive of your life?

Ng: I would say my first dive in the swimming pool. Since I was a kid, I always dreamt about flying in the air freely, like a bird. I never thought I could have the same feeling until I had my first dive. Even now, I still enjoy the weightlessness and freedom when I dive.

PADI Asia Pacific: What words of advice and encouragement would you give to divers thinking of becoming a PADI Divemaster?

Ng: Apart from additional knowledge and skills you can expect to get from the course, you will also gain valuable experience in organizing dive activities and assisting other divers. This expertise will make you a more confident and knowledgeable diver who can stay calm when tackling problems and unexpected situations. The course is very well structured, with clear objectives and comprehensive materials which make it very easy to understand. It’s also fun to learn practical skills and take some new challenges.