About Us
Our Mission
Empowering Youth through Underwater Exploration and Education
At Zen Diver S.C.U.B.A., our mission is to open up a world of possibilities for inner-city youth by offering transformative scuba diving experiences.
Through direct contact with the underwater environment, we provide hands-on, real-world applications for the math, science, and physical education concepts they learn in school.
Our approach integrates evidence-based mental health and well-being interventions, fostering a stronger sense of personal identity, physical fitness, resiliency, cultural affirmation, and teamwork.
Our Commitment:
- Educational Immersion: We believe in turning the classroom into an ocean of opportunity. By engaging youth in scuba diving, we translate academic knowledge into practical understanding, making subjects like math and science come alive beneath the waves.
- Holistic Development: Beyond academics, we prioritize mental health and personal growth. Through our evidence-based interventions, participants develop resilience, enhanced self-identity, and improved communication skills. The underwater world serves as a canvas for fostering a deeper connection with oneself.
- Cultural Enrichment: We celebrate diversity and aim to affirm the cultural and ethnic heritage of every participant. Underwater exploration becomes a bridge, connecting different backgrounds and fostering a sense of unity through shared experiences.
- Team Collaboration: Scuba diving inherently teaches teamwork and communication. Our programs emphasize collaboration and mutual support, imparting skills that are invaluable both underwater and in everyday life.
- Creating Lasting Memories: We're in the business of crafting memories that last a lifetime. Our participants not only gain unique skills but also create bonds and experiences that will stay with them forever.
- Global Opportunities: By introducing youth to the wonders of the underwater world, we open doors to global education, employment, and recreation prospects. Diving transcends borders and offers a platform for expanding horizons.
Through our programs, inner-city youth gain access to an extraordinary realm that enriches their education, enhances their personal well-being, and opens doors to a world of opportunities.
Join us in creating a future where underwater exploration inspires a generation to dive into academic excellence, personal growth, and a lifetime of worldwide connections.
"Mr. Leo"
My Scuba Diving Journey: From Marine to Instructor
My passion for scuba diving began during Rest & Relaxation after combat operations as a Marine Infantry Squad Leader in Operation Desert Storm. During my fourth certification dive at Shark Island, United Arab Emirates (UAE), my instructor Nassar had me wait on a large rock while the other divers descended. He signaled me to look at the reef behind us, which suddenly burst into a vibrant underwater city, reminiscent of the opening scene in Shark Tale.
Nassar then signaled if I was okay to descend. Excitedly, I launched myself off the rock into the blue, unaware we were atop a 100-foot cliff. After my military discharge in 1992, I became a NAUI and PADI Scuba Instructor through the Los Angeles County Advanced Diver Program and the LA County Underwater Instructors Certification Course.
My favorite classes are those for at-risk youth, guiding them from classroom to ocean and watching their confidence and skills grow. Seeing their pride as they earn their certifications is immensely rewarding.
During my Surface Interval Time (SIT), I work for the Greater Los Angeles Veterans Administration Health Care System in the Chief of Staff office, because I am deeply committed to serving those who have served our country.
It's a privilege to support and care for veterans, ensuring they receive the respect, benefits, and healthcare they deserve for their sacrifices. Working here allows me to continue to be of service by making a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans every day, honoring their service and contributions to our nation.
"Ms. Rhonda"
My Journey to Becoming a Scuba Instructor
I started diving in 2021 while living in San Diego. My final open-water certification dive was at the Coronado Islands, off the coast of Baja California. During this dive, a baby sea lion accompanied me down the anchor chain, smiled, and swam away to join its family. It was then that I knew I would dive for as long as possible.
After moving back to Los Angeles, I became immersed in diving and joined the Los Angeles County Underwater Unit. This organization has been dedicated to diver training, education, and safety for decades. My passion for diving grew as I worked with L.A. County Instructors and was exposed to many notable figures in marine science, dive safety, and education. I graduated from their rigorous Advanced Diver Program (ADP), earning certifications as an Advanced Diver, Rescue Diver, and Dive Master.
Describing the feeling of weightlessness and the amazing marine life to my non-diver friends was challenging, so becoming an Instructor seemed like the logical next step. I wanted to show them the underwater world rather than just describe it.
I graduated from the Los Angeles County Underwater Instructors program (51UICC), earning the "Best Teaching" Award for my class. I then earned Scuba Instructor Certifications from NAUI and PADI. While I love teaching all ages, I am especially passionate about teaching kids because they still find so much about the underwater world magical. Teaching them about ocean stewardship is also easier at a young age.
I excel at working with students who desire to learn to dive but are a bit apprehensive. While there are standards for earning a certification, each diver is unique, so our training is tailored to meet individual needs.
Captain Arturo P. Chayra Sr., United States Air Force
Arturo P. Chayra Sr. (1932-2004) has deep roots in Boyle Heights, where he grew up and attended local schools before joining the United States Air Force.
Despite his successful military career, he noticed the lack of resources for the Latino community and decided to retire to address this issue. Alongside his family and community, he established El Mercado de Los Angeles, a commercial community center catering to the needs of Spanish-speaking residents.
Understanding the importance of recreational facilities in combating gang problems, Arturo advocated for investing in training, jobs, and recreational programs for youth in high-crime areas.
He believed that addressing these fundamental needs is essential for improving the quality of life in the community.