The inaugural Women’s Dive Day, launched in July 2014, has significantly transformed the diving landscape by empowering women to pursue scuba diving certifications. As we approach its 12th anniversary in 2026, it’s clear that this movement is not merely a passing trend but rather a substantial, enduring commitment to gender inclusivity in diving. According to van Well, “Now we see women advancing into advanced scuba, Nitrox, and even marine research. Once they’re invited in, they don’t stop at entry level.” This evolution in the diving community is remarkable and worth exploring further.
The Women on the Shore
With PADI setting the stage, inspiring leaders like Rose Huizenga are taking significant strides. Based in Gili Air, Indonesia, Huizenga’s long-standing passion for diving led her to establish Coral Catch, an initiative aimed at providing coral restoration scholarships and PADI dive certifications to 100 Indonesian women by 2030. This mission stems from over a decade of experience in diving and conservation, where Huizenga noticed a glaring absence of Indonesian girls participating in aquatic activities.
Her vision crystallized during the pandemic, a time when tourism in Indonesia plummeted and conservation funding dried up. She recalls the moment of inspiration: “What if we created the first completely female, local coral restoration team in Indonesia?” Although met with skepticism, especially from her husband, Huizenga’s determination did not waver. He expressed his doubts: “I love you, but that’s crazy. These girls can’t be away from their families. Can they even dive in hijab?”
Despite the challenges, Huizenga’s intuition proved correct as she reached out online to gauge interest, resulting in over 150 women applying within three months. This overwhelming response highlights the latent desire among women to engage with the ocean when given the opportunity. “When we put women who shared the same love for the ocean together, something remarkable happened. They formed a sisterhood,” Huizenga noted.
The impact of this initiative is particularly evident in one of Indonesia’s most stunning marine environments—the Gili Islands, known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, often referred to as the turtle capital of the world. Here, Coral Catch’s influence is palpable, fostering not just environmental awareness but also community solidarity.
This grassroots movement is a testament to the power of women supporting women. It not only promotes environmental sustainability but also encourages personal growth and empowerment among participants. The journey towards inclusivity in diving is well underway, and we must continue to advocate for these vital initiatives.
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