Well, Hello there!

Let me introduce myself; my name is Mae, from a little village in the North West of England and I’ve always had a fascination with the sea. Awe is probably the best word to describe how I feel towards the marine environment and evidently it holds a very special place in my heart. So, to be presented as the 2017 European Rolex Scholar is truly a dream that is now coming true… I still haven’t quite realised how awesome the next year is going to be.

The Our World Underwater Scholarship Society have blown me away with their generosity. Not only do I have the support and belief of those on the board who selected me, but also all the previous scholars reaching back to the origins of the society. To be the next generation that is a part of such a coalition of divers whom have outstanding achievements is truly humbling. So, I sincerely thank everyone in the society for accepting me into the family. I hope to do you all proud.

 

Landing and starting the journey

So, how did I land this incredible opportunity? Well I have the privilege of having a mother from Malaysia and her family loves exploring their tropical coastline. We used to snorkel around the islands discovering the array of life the reefs held. But, I distinctly remember the moment divers swam underneath me, blowing bubbles in my face and that was that. I wanted to be underneath the waves with them. As soon as was old enough I signed up and it’s snowballed from there. (You can check out my bio for more on what’s happened in between!)

My first taste of this years adventures began at the annual ceremony in New York, where the 2016 scholars showcased their year and we were announced as the shiny new scholars. The whole experience was such an amazing whirlwind-blur. Amongst the haze however, I’ve taken away the fact that this scholarship is just going to be phenomenal, full of incredible experiences and I am itching to get started.

First stop… The quarry!

Where do you go first after being awarded such an opportunity? For me, back to my local SCUBA club, Southport BSAC. Yep, my first dive of the scholarship was in a quarry, tropical I know… It was such a lovely event to be present at though as it was the club’s 50th Anniversary and it was such a treat to be surrounded by the guys that I’ve learnt so much from, one being my very own father! Although the celebration was great, let’s look forward to more dives in the sea and better visibility! Watch this space… I’ll be watching it with you too.