Our very own PADI Staff instructor Emiliano, started his Diving Career by doing a Zero to Hero Program, this is a package that takes you from a PADI Open Water Diver to having the best job in the world a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor - Here we ask him about his experience.
What made you decide to do a Zero to Hero program?
I was 18 and studying Business Management at University in Mexico, I had my own business, selling food products and I was making good money. However I wasn't enjoying life, I had this money, but felt I was just existing and not experiencing life. I did my Junior Open Water when I was 13 and fell in love with Diving immediately, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue and turn my hobby into a career - doing something you love every day was a dream!
So you decided then that you wanted to be a Diving Instructor?
Yes, I wanted to dive, travel the world and enjoy life, rather than just exist. I wanted to have a real passion and purpose about my job and career and wanted to help and share my passion with the world!
What did your Zero To Hero Course look like?
I went to a Dive Centre in Bali and over 6 months, I completed my PADI Advanced Open Water, EFR, Rescue, Divemaster and Instructor Development Course. It was so much fun and I developed such a huge passion for becoming a Dive Instructor.
What do you love about being a Dive Instructor?
I feel that it’s one of the best jobs in the world, we share happiness, experiences, peace, joy and we can show people a huge part of our planet that a lot don’t get to experience.
What are your future plans?
I am 23 now and work here at the moment at PKT Diving on Phi Phi Island. I have just completed my Staff Instructor Training and my goal is to become a Course Director within 2 years.
I want to help develop the industry and shake things up and that starts with Instructor Training.
What is your advice to anyone considering starting a Zero to Hero Program?
JUST DO IT!! Do your research, understand what life is like as a diving instructor, not only the positives, but the negatives, go in well equipped and mostly have fun!!!
This is one of the most life changing, incredible experiences - and believe me, if I can do it - so can you!!!
If you want to find out more about our Zero To Hero Program here at PKT Diving and what it entails - click here