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The ‘Black Mermaid’ offers swimming lessons to women at Aliwal Shoal in KwaZulu-Natal. (Zandile Ndhlovu/Supplied).
- South Africa’s first black female freediving instructor is featured on the TV show Shark Week, hosted by John Cena.
- Zandile Ndhlovu uses her expeditions to introduce underprivileged women to the wonders of the ocean and dispel their fear of sharks.
- Discovery Channel’s Shark Week collaborated with Ndhlovu’s Black Mermaid Foundation to help break down shark stereotypes.
- For climate change news and analysis, go toNews24 Climate Future.
South Africa’s first black female freediving instructor, also known as “The Black Mermaid,” recently taught five underprivileged women how to swim and conserve ocean life.
Ndhlovu, who hails from Soweto, founded The Black Mermaid Foundation, a nonprofit organisation that holds educational snorkeling excursions, giving people of diverse backgrounds exposure to the ocean.
For Ndhlovu, the sea has always been a source of fascination and empowerment. From her first dive with sharks to her current work with underprivileged women, the ocean holds a special place in her heart.
Ndhlovu combines freediving instruction, marine education, and storytelling in her ocean advocacy. Her children’s book, Zandi’s Songchronicles her passion for the ocean while highlighting the harmful effects of plastic pollution.
Ndhlovu was pleasantly surprised by the women’s reaction to the sharks.
“I thought they would freak out, but they got more intrigued,” she added. “We saw two sharks, then five, eight, and eventually 12,” she said.
“We had the chance to bring five women from KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) out to the sea. The mission is for the girls to see sharks because KZN is home to some of the largest, most diverse species of sharks,” Ndhlovu added.
The women witnessed majestic sharks, turtles, and triggerfish on the expedition which is a collaboration by Discovery Channel’s Shark Week and the Black Mermaid Foundation. The show is hosted by the former WWE wrestler and now film star John Cena.
Sharks on Aliwal Shoal. (Zandile Ndhlovu/Supplied).
Shark Week takes viewers on an adrenaline-pumping adventure, exploring the ocean’s depths and showcasing local shark experts.
Ndhlovu emphasised the significance of changing perceptions about sharks:
Sharks are not just these man-eating animals, but they are truly fascinating creatures to observe underwater.
“Seeing sharks and other marine life during the dive was amazing. I wanted to ensure the women understand what lives in their waters and expand their understanding of sharks,” she said.
Ndhlovu particularly enjoyed working with these women, aged 27 to 30, because it resonated with her own experiences.
“The first time I saw beneath the water’s surface was when I was 28,” she recounted. “Growing up in Soweto, away from the ocean, sharing this moment with the ladies felt like I was reliving my first encounter with the ocean’s wonders.”
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The mermaid’s conservation crusade
“Shark behaviour fascinates me across the various species. How they behave at the bottom versus at the surface, how they wield their power, and when they encounter shallower waters – I find it all intriguing,” Ndhlovu said.
“Being part of shows that educate and help us solve for ‘x’ is a passion of mine. Every Shark Week show I work on expands my world a thousandfold,” she said.
With appearances on Monster Hammerheads: Species X and Belly of the Beast: Bigger and BloodierNdhlovu showcases her expertise and dedication to the ocean as she guides viewers through thrilling shark encounters.
Navigating through turbulent times
Ndhlovu’s foundation faces challenges such as inadequate funding and the fear of the ocean’s vastness among participants.
“One of our biggest challenges is securing funding for our ocean conservation work. Without financial support, it isn’t easy to maintain consistent efforts. Another challenge is overcoming people’s fear of deep water. It’s a continuous effort to educate and encourage people to embrace and respect the ocean,” she said.
Regardless of the challenges, Ndhlovu continues to address the fear of the sea and spreads knowledge that sharks are endangered.
“Education is crucial in two ways. Firstly, it’s challenging to care for something you’ve never experienced. Secondly, it’s tough to care for a world you feel is over there and not with you,” she said.
Zandile Ndhlovu snorkels with her trainees at Aliwal Shoal. (Zandile Ndhlovu).
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Ndhlovu believes that the women’s moments in the water redefine their perception of the ocean. “These moments of interaction transform their views. They become guardians, advocates, and protectors for the ocean.”
Ndhlovu said:
Sharks are often misunderstood and endangered, but through these experiences, the women can educate others. They become ambassadors for the ocean, sharing their firsthand experiences with sharks and the need for conservation.
Ndhlovu sees the partnership with Discovery Channel and Shark Week as a potential model for future initiatives. Through similar sponsorships, the more underprivileged women can be reached.
In recognition of her outstanding work, she was included in BBC’s 100 Women list of 2023 and has received several conservation awards.
