NAUI Diversity Scholarship

NAUI and this Scholarship

At its core, the NAUI Diversity Scholarship Program is designed to identify and support emerging leaders within the diving community who show extraordinary promise and a deep commitment to advancing NAUI’s global mission. Our aim is to empower these talented individuals by providing them with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to excel and make a lasting impact in the diving world.

Applications are now open for the NAUI Diversity Scholarship which will be offered to divers worldwide who identify with historically marginalized communities to earn their NAUI Instructor Certification.

Recognizing the importance of a diverse and global perspective, our scholarship program strives to extend NAUI's influence across different geographical regions. By embracing candidates from varied backgrounds and regions, we enrich our community with a plethora of viewpoints and experiences, thereby enhancing our global network and outreach. This initiative allows us to connect with new audiences and bring more people into the fold of our ever-expanding family.

 

Cultivating Future Leaders

The journey of a scholarship recipient does not end with the award; it is just the beginning. Our program serves as a launching pad for developing future leaders within the diving industry. We take pride in showcasing the success stories of past recipients who have gone on to make significant contributions to the diving community. Their achievements not only contribute to the advancement of diving practices but also solidify NAUI's reputation as a frontrunner in the industry.

 

Strengthening Our Brand Through Core Values

The Diversity Scholarship Program is a reflection of NAUI's core values. It underscores our dedication to fostering leadership development and promoting innovation in diving education and practice. By investing in the growth of diverse talents, we are not just building a stronger community but also reinforcing our commitment to being at the forefront of the diving world.

 

Enhancing Community Engagement

A key aspect of the scholarship program is its ability to foster engagement and collaboration within the diving community. Recipients often embark on initiatives that have a tangible positive impact on local diving environments. These projects not only contribute to the well-being of these communities but also enhance NAUI’s standing as a responsible and socially conscious organization.

 

 

  

Who is this Scholarship for?

  • Those from underrepresented groups in diving, based on personal background, as demonstrated by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, educational experience, socioeconomic background, cultural heritage, race and ethnicity, gender, and geographic origin. This program aims to increase diversity in all realms, including growing the geographic presence of NAUI globally.
  • Divemasters or equivalent dive leaders from any training agency looking to become a NAUI Instructor. Instructor crossover candidates are not eligible.
  • Those who have a distinct interest in supporting their communities through engagement and development in aquatic activities, especially scuba diving.

 

What does this entail?

  • The Diversity Committee Chair and Scholarship Advisory Committee will select winners based on candidate application. See below for application details and requirements.
  • NAUI will provide reimbursement up to $2500 for direct expenses related to the instructor course.
  • Applicants shall be able to identify a NAUI Affiliate and/or Course Director they’d like to complete their training with. If an applicant is located in an area where this may be challenging, the Diversity Committee will support the scholar through this process of identifying a training provider.

 

Application Requirements

  • Submission of certification prerequisites showing qualification to participate in a NAUI Instructor Training Course, as outlined in the Standards & Policies manual. Candidates with 1 year or more of experience as a Divemaster are strongly encouraged to apply.
    • NAUI Assistant Instructor or Divemaster, or equivalent
    • Nitrox certification
    • Current Diving First Aid for Professional Divers, or equivalent
    • 60 logged dives for total of 30 hours of bottom time to enroll; 100 dives to graduate
    • 6 months diving experience
  • Identify as a member of a traditionally underrepresented group in your current geographic location. Clear identification of how you meet this criteria as well as how prevalent NAUI is in your area will both be considered.
  • Personal Statement addressing these specific themes (Total of 700 words or less):
    • Experience in Aquatics. If you have aquatics experience besides recreational diving (i.e. lifeguarding, free diving, public safety, citizen science), share this with us.
    • Diversity in Aquatics. Be proud of your work in promoting diversity in aquatics or within the community; tell us about it. What communities do you represent and how will you increase the diversity of NAUI?
    • Community Organizing & Engagement. How are you involved in your current community?
    • Personal Mission Statement. What is your personal mission and how will becoming a NAUI Instructor further it? How will this create diversity in diving?
    • Why NAUI? How will becoming a NAUI Instructor further your goals? Why is our training agency a good fit for you?
  • Diving Resume
  • Outlined budget detailing use of funds for NAUI Instructor Training Course - Reimbursement up to $2500.
    • Potential expenses include tuition, course materials, travel and accommodation.
    • Identify the NAUI Affiliate or Course Director you plan to work with and confirm you have spoken to them about your intent to apply for this scholarship.
  • 3 Minute Video highlighting you, the candidate
  • Two Letters of Recommendation
    • Candidates are encouraged to submit one Letter of Recommendation that speaks to the candidate's diving background and readiness to enter a NAUI Instructor Training Course.
  • Applicants may be asked to interview with the selection committee via teleconference.

 

During Training & Follow Up

  • Documentation of the NAUI Instructor Training Course through images, social media, etc.
  • Complete a Blog Post for inclusion in NAUI media outlets, i.e. social media, bulletins, Sources, etc.
  • Commit to teaching three NAUI courses within the first year of certification as a NAUI Instructor. Scholars are encouraged to teach at least one entry level course and at least one continuing education course.
  • Serve on the NAUI Diversity Subcommittee the year following the scholarship award.

 

How To Apply

All applications materials must be via email to scholarship@naui.org by midnight EST April 30, 2024.

All applicants will receive confirmation of materials received. All applicants will receive award notification no later than August.

 

 

Donate Today

This scholarship in funded in part by donors like you. Click here to make a one time or recurring donation. NAUI Members can also make a donation as part of their annual renewal.

 

Application Reviewers

Each application is reviewed by multiple NAUI Members. If you are interested in serving as a volunteer reviewer, please submit 200 words or less stating your interest and qualifications to scholarship@naui.org. Reviewers are selected on an annual basis as application volume requires.