Learning to swim and freediving with sharks – Nicky Namntu
Nicky Namntu, a dedicated field manager for Plett Shark Spotters, recently had the privilege of attending the 7th Southern African Shark and Ray Symposium. Below, Nicky shares her unforgettable journey, from her childhood curiosity about the ocean to her thrilling experience diving with sharks at Aliwal Shoal, KZN.
“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 a 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 the mesmerising 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 (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa).
In Durban, I decided to face my biggest fear of the ocean: sharks. My colleague Melissa (marine biologist, Melissa Nel) 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 favourite 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 is the gateway to exploring more ocean adventures, and I eagerly anticipate what comes next.
Plett Tourism interviewed Nicky when she was newly appointed with Plett Shark Spotters last year and you can read that article here: Meet Nicky Namntu or how read Shark Spotter, Tyrone, found serenity in learning to surf. In the water or on the beach, Plett’s Shark Spotters are making waves in all the best ways.
ABOUT PLETT SHARK SPOTTERS
Plett Shark Spotters was therefore established in November 2022, with trained spotters operational at five of Plett’s busiest beaches in time for the busy festive season. Operations have continued in the area ever since, creating 14 full time employment and skills development opportunities for locals from under-resourced communities.
Working closely with the Bitou Municipality Beach Control, Lifesavers and NSRI station, Plett Shark Spotters makes a positive contribution to beach safety in Plett, and has proved to be effective at reducing shark-human conflict and restoring confidence in the use of local beaches.
Due to an operational funding shortfall, Plett Shark Spotters has requested support from the public to help ensure that there are spotters on Plett’s beaches to keep both locals and visitors safe. By making a recurring or one-off donation to Plett Spotters you are making a significant investment in the people, environment, and economy of our area.
You can learn more or make a donation here or visit www.sharkspotters.org.za.
