Yes, we realise George is a man, but given his involvement in gender equality and conservation we have decided to make him an honorary woman for the purpose of this article!
George Bevan is a dive instructor, one of the founders of Daughters Of The Deep and the executive director for Conservation Diver.
When did you start diving?
I first tried diving at age 9 in Gran Canaria and then did my junior Open Water the next year. Diving became a passion of mine from then on, as it both made me feel special doing a sport (questionable term for it) that none of my friends did and ignited an ongoing interest in the ocean world.
What made you want to become a diver? A dive pro / work in dive industry (if applicable)?
I have always had a busy mind that was hard to shut off. In diving I found a place where I could find peace and in many ways meditate, totally distracted by the wonders of the ocean. Having started diving so young I always thought that the dive pros were the coolest of people and therefore always wanted to be one. However, it was only when an injury stopped me from playing Rugby, my first love, that I decided to throw myself completely into the ocean. I became a Divemaster at 19 using it as a way to travel. Then, after a period of lost years in London working for the machine, I completed my instructor course at 26 as a way to support my career in Marine Conservation through the development of what is now a non-profit I help run called Conservation Diver.
What is you best / most memorable dive?
I have been lucky enough to have been diving 26 years already and within that time have seen some of the ocean's most awe inspiring animals and events. Since becoming a dive professional I sadly lost the state of meditation I had as a young lad, but found the love for sharing diving experiences with friends. So now my best dives are those spent under the water, diving for fun with those I love - namely Spencer Arnold and Dingus.
Most gratifying course you took or taught?
Conservation Diver was a non-profit I have had the honour to help manage over the last decade. All our courses are centred around research and conservation goals and outputs. Teaching students marine science has been the greatest pleasure of my life, in both seeing them grow in their understanding and love for the oceans as well as watching them go on and surpass my achievements in its conservation.
5 qualities of a great dive pro?
To become a good dive pro you must be able to instil confidence in your students that you will keep them safe as well as create a fun environment that makes them fall in love with diving. Smiles on the surface and stern underwater. So be energetic, funny, knowledgeable, strong and project Poseidon or Amphitrite-like comfortability in the water.
Do you think women are different divers than men and why?
Generality is something I try to steer away from. I have met divers of all gender types that have broken common stereotypes of strength, air consumption and bravery. Having been a founding member of Daughters of the Deep I have learnt to celebrate differences between individuals and crush predetermined notions of one's ability based on their gender.
One piece of advice for someone starting diving?
However the certification agencies like to market it, diving is an extreme activity. Don’t let yourself get swept up in the fun club holiday vibe. Always set up your own equipment and clean it at the end of the day. Learn the information you are being given. Help your dive professionals where you can and ask questions. Let them love their job and take some responsibility for yourself :)
Comentários