In 1998, I embarked on a career in hospitality as a humble telephone operator. Little did I know that this path would lead me to the sea, teaching guests how to ride the waves and harness the wind. But let me take you back to the beginning.
I was the oldest of eight siblings, a responsibility that carried a financial burden. My modest wage as a telephone operator was not enough to support their education and ensure they had the chance to follow their dreams. I was determined to find a way to provide them with a better future.
One day, a glimmer of opportunity surfaced in the form of a Swiss gentleman Named Mr. Roland Hans who owned the resort's water sports center. I approached him, proposing that I could work part-time at his water sports center. After demonstrating my commitment to learning the Activities, he agreed to take me under him to assist him only. This was where my journey as a water sports instructor began.
As a water sports instructor, my daily activities ranged from teaching guests how to use water sports equipment to running catamaran excursions. We would venture off to sandbanks and go snorkeling. The job was demanding, and more often than not, I was the only one not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. I vividly recall days when there was barely any wind, yet I would still take guests to the sandbank by catamaran, sometimes having to paddle back when the wind died down.
There were also days when bad weather would force us to cross the reef, damaging the catamaran, and leaving us stranded overnight. With limited and old equipment, I had to be resourceful, spending extra hours repairing the catamaran to ensure it was ready for the next day's adventures.
During this challenging period, I was accompanied by an Italian gentleman named Luca. Luca was not only a helpful colleague but also a patient teacher who helped me master the Italian language. I am now semi-fluent, a skill I owe to him.
Despite the challenges, my time as a water sports instructor was rewarding. I was able to earn enough money to support my siblings' education, and I also had the opportunity to work at high-end properties like Anantara and W Maldives. During this time, I achieved my VDWS instructor certification and became a Dive Master.
In addition, I had the privilege of working with local related NGOs, like the Windsurf Association, Sailing Association, and Kite Surfing Association. I was instrumental in organizing sports tournaments, and I even represented the Maldives in international tournaments such as IOIG and Asian Games.
My journey from telephone operator to water sports instructor was not an easy one, but it was certainly worth the ride. It taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of chasing opportunities. It also allowed me to support my family and contribute to my community. Now, as I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the sea that gave me a chance to sail against the wind, and for the waves that taught me how to stay afloat during life's storms.
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