18-year-old from Uttarakhand earns dual PADI certifications, marks milestone birthday underwater
Ltd.
What makes this accomplishment even more extraordinary is that Areen completed his PADI Open Water certification before turning 18. And he celebrated his 18th birthday by completing the Advanced Open Water course just two days later, thus showcasing his determination, discipline, and love for the ocean.
The PADI Open Water Diver certification, awarded on June 3, 2025, marks Areen's initiation into the diving world.
This equips him with essential skills such as buoyancy control, mask clearing, and underwater breathing. This globally recognized certification allows him to dive independently to depths of up to 18 meters (60 feet).
On June 5, 2025, Areen further advanced his diving expertise by earning the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification. This enables him to dive deeper up to 30 meters (100 feet) and handle more complex underwater environments.
The course included mandatory deep and navigation dives, as well as three adventure dives of his choice, selected to broaden his experience and confidence underwater.
'This achievement is not just about diving; it's about stepping outside your comfort zone, learning to trust your instincts, and connecting deeply with the natural world,' Areen said after receiving his certificates.
Areen's journey into the depths of the Andaman Sea reflects the aspirations of many young Indians eager to explore beyond both geographical and personal boundaries. His certifications, earned under the guidance of seasoned instructor Adhyatma Tiwari and Dive Andaman, add a professional edge to his profile as a young diver.
This makes Areen Srivastav not just one of the youngest PADI-certified advanced divers in his region but also sets an inspiring example for youth, aiming to combine adventure with discipline and lifelong learning.
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