In a testament to its exceptional commitment to promoting female diving, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, a premier resort within the Atmosphere Core hospitality portfolio, alongside its partner dive centre TGI Maldives, has been awarded the “Outstanding Contribution to Women’s Diving” accolade by PADI® (Professional Association of Diving Instructors®). This prestigious recognition places the Maldives firmly on the global map as a leading destination for female divers, highlighting the joint efforts of TGI Maldives and OBLU NATURE Helengeli in breaking down barriers and empowering women to explore the underwater world.
PADI: A Beacon of Inclusivity in Diving
PADI®, the world’s largest purpose-driven diving organization, operates in 180 countries and territories, having issued over 30 million diving certifications. With more than 6,600 PADI dive centres and resorts globally, this award to TGI Maldives and OBLU NATURE Helengeli underscores a significant achievement in the realm of female diving inclusivity.
Celebrating PADI’s Women In Diving Initiative
In honour of the 10th global celebration of PADI’s Women In Diving Initiative, which includes the flagship annual PADI Women’s Dive Day, this award is a recognition of TGI Maldives and OBLU NATURE Helengeli’s dedication to increasing the inclusivity and belonging of women in the diving industry. This initiative is aimed at fostering a more inclusive environment, encouraging women to participate in diving and ocean conservation activities.
Distinguished Guests at the Award Ceremony
The award ceremony, held on the picturesque shores of Helengeli island, was graced by prominent figures such as Dr. Abdulla Niyaz, Minister of State for Tourism of the Republic of Maldives; Matt Wenger, PADI Regional Manager for Maldives; and Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation (MMPRC). Their presence highlighted the importance of this recognition and the positive promotion of female diving in the Maldives.
A Celebration of Female Diving
In support of female diving, the resort hosted a PADI Women’s Dive Day Celebration event from 14th to 17th July, inviting ten female journalists from around the world along with women dive instructors from TGI Maldives. This event underscored the resort’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for female divers, providing them with opportunities to explore the underwater world and share their experiences with a global audience.
The Evolution of Tourism in the Maldives
Acknowledging the importance of positive promotion for female diving in the Maldives, Minister of Tourism Mr. Ibrahim Faisal remarked on the transformative journey of the Maldives over the last 30 years. From humble beginnings, the Maldives has evolved into a paradise that attracts a diverse range of tourists. Today, the demographic profile of inbound tourists has significantly diversified, with an increasing number of female travelers seeking the unique experience of the Maldives.
A Commitment to Inclusivity and Diversity
PADI’s Regional Manager Matt Wenger emphasized the organization’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the diving community. PADI’s Pillars of Change focus on making the underwater world accessible to all, promoting the healing aspects of the sport, and nurturing an inclusive environment. The recognition of TGI Maldives and OBLU NATURE Helengeli is a testament to their contributions in encouraging more women to seek adventure and save the ocean.
An Unforgettable Diving Destination
For female divers, OBLU NATURE Helengeli offers an unparalleled escape. From ocean scuba diving at renowned dive sites to exploring new, unexplored locations or snorkeling vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life, the opportunities are endless. Divers can encounter local manta rays, turtles, octopi, and sharks, as well as abundant schools of tropical fish. With occasional sightings of dolphins near the island’s reef, it is an ideal destination for both underwater exploration and castaway life.
A Seamless Integration of Diving and Resort Lifestyle
The resort seamlessly integrates scuba diving and snorkeling into its overall lifestyle, which includes the ELE|NA spa experience. Divers can indulge in relaxing and healing treatments and therapies designed to soothe before and after diving. Activities such as breathwork and floating meditation sessions, along with sunset yoga, ensure a relaxing vacation both underwater and on the island.
Leadership and Excellence at OBLU NATURE Helengeli
Receiving the award on behalf of TGI Maldives and OBLU NATURE Helengeli, dive center Operations Manager Greta Marcelli and resort General Manager Ali Shakir expressed their commitment to improving guest experiences both on the island and in the ocean. They emphasized the importance of their partnership with PADI in providing the safest certified dive courses and exceptional hospitality.
An Unrivaled Location
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO is strategically located at the tip of the North Malé Atoll, reachable by a scenic 50-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport. This convenient accessibility, combined with world-class diving experiences, positions the resort as a premier destination for female divers and all diving enthusiasts.
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