ABOUT US
THE VISION
Welcome to our local AIDA, CMAS, & Molchanov Freediving School, where we are passionately dedicated to unlocking the boundless potential within each individual through the art of freediving.
Our mission is to foster a deep connection between humans and the ocean, inspiring a profound respect for marine life and the environment. We envision a world where freediving becomes more than just a sport, but a transformative experience that empowers individuals to explore their inner depths and rediscover the harmony of nature.
At our school, safety and education are paramount, and our experienced instructors provide a nurturing and supportive environment for students to learn and grow. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, our goal is to help you embrace the magic of the underwater realm and awaken a sense of wonder that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Join us on this extraordinary journey, as we dive into the depths of self-discovery and celebrate the beauty of the ocean together.
FOUNDER
Sophie Walsh
Sophie, the National Record holder for freediving in Seychelles, is a young ocean enthusiast, videographer, and freediving instructor trainer. From a very young age, she spent most of her time exploring and freediving along the pristine coasts of the Seychelles.
Sophie is an avid lover of the sea and the environment; she shares her knowledge and inspires others to fall in love with and connect with the underwater world.Since starting her company, Freediving Seychelles, in 2021, she has taught over 500 people to freedive and has been promoted to AIDA Instructor Trainer, CMAS, Molchanov Instructor, PADI Freediving Instructor, Share Equalisation Instructor, and AIDA & CMAS Youth Instructor. Sophie is also a breathwork and equalisation instructor and has been organising liveaboard retreats and expeditions in the Seychelles Outer Islands and also in Madagascar.
"Freediving is more than just a sport; it’s a lifestyle. People are drawn to the depths of the ocean for a variety of reasons. Some seek to improve their fitness, connect with the sea, master their bodies, manage stress, achieve a sense of accomplishment, or blend seamlessly with marine life. Others dive to experience freedom, find peace and tranquillity, or closely observe coastal ecosystems.
Regardless of the motivation, one thing is certain: once you begin, you will feel a profound desire to protect and cherish the ocean, making it an integral part of your life"
FREEDIVING INSTRUCTOR
Kelian Ah-Kon
Kelian is a 2* CMAS freediving instructor, AIDA 4 freediver, STCW certified, and an instructor at Freediving Seychelles. He comes from a family with generations on the water, and sailing has always been part of his life; a background he's now building on at the Seychelles Maritime Academy.
Before the ocean took hold of him, Kelian was already making a name for himself on dry land: one of the best tennis players in Seychelles, having represented the country at the Davis Cup in Congo and Botswana, alongside surfing and endurance running. Fair warning: if you want to know the best surf spots in Seychelles, Kelian is the guy to ask.
He did his first freediving course with Freediving Seychelles in early 2022, and curiosity quickly turned into obsession. He went on to compete in Seychelles' first-ever national freediving pool competition, the first Seychellois man in the category and currently holds the national record in static apnea.
"I started freediving in 2022 and did my AIDA 1 with Sophie. It started as curiosity, but as I advanced my interest grew. There was something about hanging at 15 metres with full control over my thoughts....a connection with the ocean I'd never felt doing anything else, and I knew I wanted to do this for as long as I can.
I want to show people brave enough to step out of their comfort zone that freediving goes a lot deeper than just how deep you can go."
FREEDIVING INSTRUCTOR
