Nicky Namntu, a dedicated field manager for Plett Shark Spotters, recently had the privilege of attending the 7th Southern African Shark and Ray Symposium. Here, she shares her unforgettable journey, from her childhood curiosity about the ocean to her thrilling experience diving with sharks at Aliwal Shoal.
I was super excited but at the same time, I was super nervous because we were heading to the Shark & Ray Symposium in Durban, where I would be amongst the world’s most amazing and hardworking people: marine biologists, researchers, and explorers. On the first day, I felt like a kid in a candy store seeing these incredible individuals. The energy was electric, full of passionate ocean lovers, making it the best experience and highlight of 2023 for me.
Growing up, I was always a curious child with a deep love for nature. Raised in Keurbooms by my grandmother, she always warned me never to go to the river without her supervision. But her work schedule was demanding, so I often sneaked away with friends to swim and explore the Keurbooms River. One unforgettable day, while standing on a sandbank, a jet ski zoomed past me, creating waves that pushed me into the deeper water. As I struggled underwater, I kept my eyes open and saw a mesmerizing sight of fish swimming around me. Despite my fear, that beautiful vision stayed with me. From that day, I taught myself to swim and developed a passion for the ocean, eventually earning a certificate in Environmental Education, Training, and Development Practice through WESSA.
In Durban, I decided to face my biggest fear of the ocean: sharks. My colleague Melissa suggested free diving with sharks, and though the idea terrified me, I felt compelled to take on the challenge. I had once quit a lifeguard job because of this fear. Melissa and I set out to Aliwal Shoal, a renowned reef. During the 40-minute boat trip, I repeatedly recited my favorite Bible scripture, 1 John 4:4, “Greater is he that is in me than he that is in the world,” to bolster my courage.
As the boat neared the diving spot, my heart pounded furiously, and I had a flashback of my near-drowning experience in the Keurbooms River. The memory was vivid, but this time, I was surrounded by much larger fish. Struggling to breathe, I relied on the meditation techniques I had practiced during the boat ride to regain my calm. Once in the water, the experience was incredible. Observing the sharks as they observed us, trying to figure us out, was awe-inspiring. After the dive, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride. My family was proud too, as I am the only one in my family with such adventurous inclinations.
Without the Shark Spotters program, I don’t think I would have had the opportunities to pursue my dream adventures. I am 1000% sure that this program was the gateway to exploring more ocean adventures, and I eagerly anticipate what comes next.
Written by Nicky Namntu and Melissa Nel