Former Krugersdorp resident Nicola Sequeira has traded the West Rand for the ocean depths, building a career as a scuba diving instructor while inspiring others to embrace adventure and helping protect the marine environment.

As Women’s Month begins, the 25-year-old hopes her journey will encourage women to pursue their passions, embrace new opportunities and believe in their abilities.

Now based in Sodwana Bay, Nicola manages a dive centre where she trains aspiring diving professionals. She helps divers develop the skills needed to qualify as Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Divemasters and PADI Scuba Instructors.

Having spent the past six years in the male-dominated scuba diving industry, Nicola said she has learned that determination and confidence matter far more than gender.

“Women can carry just as much gear as men. What makes me proud as a woman in this industry is our ability to remain calm under pressure, both above and below the surface. When something goes wrong, staying calm is essential to making sure the people learning to scuba dive have the best possible experience,” she said.

Her career has taken her to Indonesia, Thailand and Zanzibar, where she not only gained international experience but also developed a passion for marine conservation.

While working in Zanzibar, Nicola helped restore coral reefs, an experience she describes as one of the highlights of her career.

“The ocean is one of the most beautiful places to explore and learn about. I love marine life, and I believe that if we want people to protect the ocean, they first need to understand it. Education is key. People need to experience its beauty, how it breathes, how it moves, and the incredible creatures that live there,” she said.

One of Nicola’s favourite experiences is witnessing the annual sand tiger shark migration in Sodwana Bay.

“The reefs become filled with sand tiger sharks, or ‘raggies’, as they move into the warmer, shallower waters. Seeing these majestic animals up close for almost three months is an incredible and humbling experience.”

Looking back on her journey, Nicola hopes more women will challenge themselves to step outside their comfort zones and pursue careers they are passionate about.

“I would encourage every woman to never, ever give up. You’ll never feel completely ready for everything life throws at you, so just start. Speak to yourself with the same kindness you show the people you love. Don’t be so hard on yourself, and take life one day at a time.”