The first Moroccan woman to become a two-star diving instructor, Hajar Bouzaidi is making her mark in a world long dominated by men. Between an early passion for the sea, a demanding scientific background, and underwater feats, this native of Tetouan has reached a depth of 62 meters and has turned ocean exploration into a vocation dedicated to education and research.
Originally from Tetouan, Hajar Bouzaidi has made her mark in a field long dominated by men: scuba diving. At 36, she became the first Moroccan woman to reach a depth of 62 meters and earned a coaching diploma that made her the first female two-star diving instructor in Morocco.
Her connection with the sea is no accident. From childhood, she developed a passion for swimming and the beauty of the coastline, taking advantage of the proximity of the Mediterranean Sea where she spent most of her time with her family, between Martil and M’diq-Fnideq.
In a statement to Le360 , she indicated that she has a deep connection with the ocean: “ I feel immense peace in the presence of the ocean. The sea was not just a beautiful landscape, but a universe that awakened my curiosity and prompted me to ask myself: what lies hidden in the depths? What secrets are concealed beneath this blue surface? ”
This curiosity has influenced her academic path. Holding a doctorate in biology and marine biology from Abdelmalek Essaâdi University in Tangier, she explains that her scientific interest led her to a master’s degree in marine environment and aquaculture, before continuing to a doctorate with a specialization in marine biology and resources, in order to better understand this world and contribute to its protection.
Hajar also admits to having a genuine passion for ocean-related content, particularly the documentaries of Jacques-Yves Cousteau. The idea of taking up diving took root during her doctoral studies, when researchers needed to call upon divers to collect marine samples. » I kept wondering why we, specialists in the field, didn’t dive ourselves to conduct our research. «
From first dives to mastering the depths
“ Everything was new to me ,” she says of her beginnings. But training, discipline, and self-confidence gradually transformed fear into a driving force for progress.
Her first real deep dive was the result of a long apprenticeship, sustained effort, and multiple attempts. She never stopped after that: diving became a daily ritual, practiced summer and winter, punctuated by moments of joy as her performance improved.
Giving up never crosses her mind. » I have never thought of quitting, simply because I deeply love this field and I enjoy everything I learn here , » she says.
The transition from amateur diver to Dive Leader is the most demanding step in her journey. At this level, the responsibility changes dramatically: » You’re no longer diving just for yourself. You become responsible for the safety of the entire team. This requires concentration, experience, and great self-confidence . »
This phase marks a turning point: it shapes her underwater leadership and strengthens her professional rigor, in an environment where the slightest mistake can have serious consequences.
Hajar Bouzaidi then took another step forward by becoming a diving instructor. A challenge of a different nature: » It’s no longer just about technical skills. Pedagogy becomes essential: knowing how to transmit knowledge, guide beginners and give them a sense of safety underwater . »
After intensive training, she accumulated more than 300 dives and reached a depth of 62 meters, a Moroccan women’s record, obtaining her instructor’s certificate in the presence of members of the technical committee of the Royal Moroccan Federation of Diving and Underwater Activities.
This recognition encouraged her to continue her exploration of the seabed in Morocco and internationally. In 2023, she participated in internships and scientific meetings in Egypt and Tunisia, receiving several honorary certificates.
A dream that continues
But for her, the adventure is only just beginning. » Dreams never end , » she says. She aims to develop scientific diving to better supervise students and researchers in marine science and bring them closer to the direct observation of the underwater world.
She also wants to explore new sites, both known and unknown, rich in biodiversity and marine resources.
Among her most memorable experiences was an immersion in the Red Sea, where she swam for the first time alongside three species of sharks and dolphins. » An exceptional experience, a dream come true , » she confided, also expressing her desire to participate in scientific and environmental projects dedicated to the protection of marine life.
Today, her passion finds its fullest expression in her teaching of aquaculture master’s students, to whom she imparts her experience, as well as to Moroccan divers, particularly professionals in the sector. For Hajar Bouzaidi, exploring the depths remains a unique vocation.
source : le 360
