Imagine standing on the sun-drenched shores of Gili Air, where the turquoise waters conceal a vibrant underworld. Here, the journey from enthusiastic diver to inspiring instructor isn’t just a career move—it’s a leap into a lifelong passion. Oceans 5 Gili Air's recent milestone, hosting its first-ever SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar, marks not just growth but a transformational chapter in dive education. This blog dives into how this pioneering event and its new Instructor Trainers are shaping the future of professional scuba training.
From Waves to Wisdom: Oceans 5’s Legacy in Dive Education
For years, Oceans 5 Gili Air has stood as a beacon for those seeking not just to dive, but to transform their passion into a lifelong profession. The center’s journey began with a simple mission: to foster professional growth through hands-on experience, expert mentorship, and a deep respect for the art of teaching. Today, that mission has evolved into a powerful legacy—one that continues to shape the future of dive education across Southeast Asia and beyond.
Imagine a diver, nervous but excited, taking their very first breaths underwater under the careful guidance of an Oceans 5 instructor. Fast forward a few years, and that same diver now stands at the front of a classroom, leading the next generation of instructors. This transformation is not just a dream—it’s a reality for many who have walked through the doors of Oceans 5 Gili Air. The center’s commitment to nurturing talent and inspiring leadership is woven into every course, every dive, and every success story.
As a recognized leader in professional dive instructor career development, Oceans 5 Gili Air has always prioritized mentorship and experience. The center’s instructors are more than teachers—they are role models, guiding candidates through the challenges and triumphs of becoming a dive professional. “Our focus has always been to nurture instructors who lead with confidence and care.” shares Warren Beyers (Waz), one of Oceans 5’s newest SSI Instructor Trainers. This philosophy has helped countless divers find their calling, and it continues to drive the center’s approach to education.
Evolution into a Hub for Instructor Development
Over the years, Oceans 5 Gili Air has grown from a respected dive center into a true hub for instructor development. The center’s blend of mentorship, expertise, and community spirit has created an environment where instructors are not just trained, but truly developed. Here, candidates are encouraged to push their limits, embrace new challenges, and emerge as leaders ready to make an impact in the diving world.
This commitment to excellence recently reached a new milestone with the hosting of the first-ever SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar at Oceans 5. This 10-day intensive program brought together seven highly experienced candidates, each ready to take the next step on the Instructor Trainer certification pathway. Under the guidance of Ronny Kain and a team of seasoned educators, including Surbyiendranath, Jaka (IC), Cédric, Woody (IC), Leo, Pedro, Ramon, and Waz, the seminar set a new standard for professional development at the center.
Symbolizing a New Era in Dive Education
Hosting the SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar is more than just a milestone—it’s a symbol of Oceans 5 Gili Air’s ongoing evolution. The seminar’s rigorous curriculum challenged candidates academically, practically, and mentally, ensuring that only the most dedicated and capable would earn the title of SSI Instructor Trainer. With seven candidates participating and two staff members—Waz and Ramon—successfully achieving Instructor Trainer certification, Oceans 5 has solidified its place as a leader in global dive education.
Now, with two SSI Instructor Trainers on site, Oceans 5 Gili Air offers even greater support and expertise for those pursuing the SSI Instructor Training Course and beyond. The center’s legacy continues to grow, inspiring divers to turn their waves of passion into true wisdom—and to lead the next generation with confidence, care, and a spirit of excellence.
The Demanding Voyage: SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar Experience
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar is more than just a course—it is a transformative journey that pushes even the most seasoned instructors to new heights. This 10-day intensive program is designed to challenge, refine, and elevate every aspect of a professional dive instructor career, ensuring that only the most confident, competent instructors emerge as SSI Instructor Trainers.
Ten Days of Intensity: Academic, Practical, and Mental Challenges
The SSI Instructor Training Course at Oceans 5 is renowned for its rigor. Over ten demanding days, seven highly experienced candidates—including Oceans 5’s own Ramon and Warren “Waz”—were immersed in a schedule that tested their limits. Each day brought new academic challenges, practical teaching scenarios, and mental hurdles. The seminar’s structure is deliberate: it is meant to simulate the pressures and responsibilities that future Instructor Trainers will face as they shape the next generation of dive educators.
Academic Mastery: Candidates are required to demonstrate a deep understanding of SSI standards and dive theory, ensuring they can teach and uphold the highest educational benchmarks.
Teaching Presentations: Each participant delivers instructor-level presentations, receiving real-time feedback to hone their communication and instructional skills.
Confined and Open Water Evaluations: Practical assessments in both confined and open water environments test candidates’ ability to instruct, evaluate, and mentor under real-world conditions.
Leadership and Professional Conduct: The seminar places a strong emphasis on leadership, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to inspire others through example.
Transforming Instructors into Leaders
The heart of the SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar lies in its focus on transformation. It is not simply about passing exams or checking boxes—it is about evolving teaching philosophy, refining leadership style, and developing the ability to assess and mentor future instructors. As Ronny Kain, the seminar’s lead, put it:
"The seminar was a crucible that turned instruction into mastery."
This transformation is evident in every candidate, but especially during moments of breakthrough. One such moment occurred during a confined water evaluation, when a candidate, after struggling with a complex teaching scenario, suddenly found clarity. With guidance from the instructional team, they adapted their approach, communicated with confidence, and saw their students respond with understanding and enthusiasm. It was a powerful reminder that mastery is forged in challenge—and that confident, competent instructors are made, not born.
Evaluation: More Than Just Skills
Throughout the seminar, candidates are evaluated on a comprehensive set of criteria:
Instructor-level teaching presentations
Academic knowledge and standards mastery
Confined and open water instructional skills
Leadership, mentoring, and assessment abilities
Professional conduct and decision-making under pressure
The process is demanding, but it ensures that only those who truly embody the values and expertise of SSI Instructor Trainers succeed. This commitment to excellence is what sets Oceans 5 Gili Air apart as a leader in SSI Instructor Training Courses and professional dive instructor career development.
Meet Your SSI Instructor Trainers: Ramon & Waz’s Journey
At the heart of Oceans 5 Gili Air’s commitment to elevating professional dive education are two remarkable individuals: Ramon and Warren “Waz.” Recently certified as SSI Instructor Trainers, they represent a new era for the dive center and set a powerful example for aspiring instructors on Gili Air and beyond. Their journey through the SSI Instructor Trainer certification pathway is a story of dedication, expertise, and a shared passion for teaching.
Introducing Ramon and Waz: Oceans 5’s First SSI Instructor Trainers
Ramon and Waz are not just instructors—they are mentors, leaders, and role models. With years of global diving and teaching experience between them, they bring a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to Oceans 5 Gili Air. Their recent achievement in becoming SSI Instructor Trainers is a testament to their unwavering commitment to professional growth and educational excellence.
This milestone is especially significant: Oceans 5 Gili Air is now the only SSI Instructor Training Center on Gili Air with two SSI Instructor Trainers on site. This distinction means that every candidate who trains here benefits from a level of support, guidance, and mentorship that is truly unmatched in the region.
Enriching the Training Environment with Experience and Passion
Ramon and Waz’s combined experience spans continents and cultures, giving them a broad understanding of what it takes to succeed as a dive professional. Their backgrounds in both recreational and professional diving allow them to connect with candidates at every stage of their journey. The result is a training environment that is not only rigorous and thorough, but also supportive and inspiring.
Ramon is known for his attention to detail and his ability to break down complex concepts into simple, actionable steps. His teaching style is direct yet encouraging, helping candidates build confidence as they master new skills.
Waz brings a calm, patient approach to every session. His steady presence and thoughtful feedback create a safe space for candidates to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow. Many students say that Waz’s mentorship inspires them to reach higher and push beyond their perceived limits.
"Having two Instructor Trainers on site means candidates get unmatched support and experience." - Ramon
Personalized Mentorship: The Key to Success
The presence of two SSI Instructor Trainers at Oceans 5 Gili Air is more than just a number—it’s a promise of quality. Ramon and Waz work closely with each candidate, offering personalized feedback and one-on-one coaching throughout the Instructor Trainer certification pathway. This hands-on approach ensures that every future instructor receives the attention and support they need to excel.
Their mentorship goes beyond the classroom. Whether it’s a challenging open water evaluation or a late-night study session, Ramon and Waz are there to guide, motivate, and celebrate each milestone. Their dedication is evident in every aspect of the training process, and it’s what sets Oceans 5 apart as a leader in SSI Instructor Trainer development.
Today, the entire Oceans 5 team is incredibly proud to celebrate Ramon and Waz’s achievement. Their journey is proof that with hard work, high standards, and a passion for teaching, anything is possible.
Why Oceans 5? Unpacking the Unique Training Advantage
Choosing where to launch your professional dive instructor career is a decision that shapes your future. Oceans 5 Gili Air stands out as a beacon of excellence, offering a unique blend of experienced staff, innovative SSI standards, and a deep-rooted commitment to environmental responsibility diving. Here’s what sets Oceans 5 apart for aspiring instructors ready to take on the world.
Expert Staff & Cutting-Edge SSI Standards
At the heart of Oceans 5’s success is its team of passionate educators. With the recent addition of two in-house SSI Instructor Trainers, Waz and Ramon, Oceans 5 is now the only SSI Instructor Training Center on Gili Air with this level of expertise on site. Their combined global experience, supported by a diverse instructional team, ensures every candidate receives mentorship that goes beyond the basics.
The program is built on the rigorous, internationally recognized SSI Instructor Training Course standards. As Sander Buis, Course Director, puts it:
“Our course is about building real, confident, competent instructors prepared for the global stage.”
This commitment to excellence means you’re not just learning to pass a course—you’re developing the skills to lead, inspire, and teach anywhere in the world.
Practical Teaching Skills & Real-World Preparation
Oceans 5’s 16-day SSI Instructor Training Course is designed for real-life success. The curriculum emphasizes:
Practical teaching methods: Candidates practice delivering lessons in both confined and open water, mastering the art of clear communication and student management.
Leadership and mentoring: The program challenges you to refine your leadership style, preparing you to guide future divers and instructors with confidence.
Professional conduct: From decision-making to problem-solving, you’ll learn what it takes to be a respected leader in the dive industry.
Graduates also benefit from post-course support, including hands-on experience in real dive center operations. This bridges the gap between certification and a successful start in your professional dive instructor career.
Environmental Responsibility Diving at the Core
Oceans 5 believes that great instructors are also stewards of the ocean. Environmental responsibility diving is woven throughout the SSI Instructor Training Course. Candidates learn how to integrate eco-friendly practices into their teaching, inspire students to protect marine life, and contribute to local conservation efforts. This focus ensures that every new instructor leaves with a sense of purpose and the practical tools to make a difference.
Consistent Monthly Courses for Career Growth
One of the standout advantages at Oceans 5 is accessibility. With monthly SSI Instructor Training Courses running from February to November 2026, aspiring professionals can plan their training around their own schedules. This consistency opens doors for divers worldwide, making career advancement more attainable than ever before.
Course Duration | Course Fee | Monthly Sessions |
|---|---|---|
16 days | €1200 | February–November 2026 |
Why Train at Oceans 5?
Learn from two on-site SSI Instructor Trainers and a world-class team
Master practical teaching, student management, and environmental responsibility diving
Benefit from monthly, flexible course scheduling for sustained career growth
Gain real-world insights into dive center operations and instructor life
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the SSI Instructor Training Course is more than a certification—it’s the launchpad for a rewarding, globally recognized professional dive instructor career.
Charting Your Dive Instructor Path: The Future of SSI Training on Gili Air
The journey to become a scuba instructor is more than just a career move—it's a commitment to leadership, mentorship, and the pursuit of excellence beneath the waves. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, this journey is entering an inspiring new chapter. With the successful completion of its first-ever SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar, Oceans 5 has firmly established itself as a beacon for dive professionals seeking to elevate their skills and shape the future of dive education.
This milestone is not just about celebrating the achievements of Ramon and Warren “Waz”—now certified SSI Instructor Trainers—but about opening doors for the next generation of passionate divers. Their accomplishment signals a new era for Oceans 5, which is now the only SSI Instructor Training Center on Gili Air with two resident Instructor Trainers. This means more expertise, more support, and more opportunities for those ready to take the next step in their professional dive careers.
Looking ahead, Oceans 5 is committed to keeping the momentum strong. The first SSI Instructor Training Course (ITC) is scheduled to begin on February 13th, 2026, marking the start of a new tradition of excellence. With nine Instructor Training Courses planned every month throughout 2026, Oceans 5 is set to meet the growing global demand for qualified SSI instructors. These frequent sessions ensure that aspiring professionals can find the right time to begin their journey, with regular Instructor Evaluation sessions providing a clear path from student to leader.
This steady rhythm of monthly instructor courses is more than just a schedule—it’s a promise of continuous professional development. Oceans 5’s approach means that no matter when you’re ready to advance, there’s a place for you to grow, learn, and thrive. The dive center’s reputation for high standards and supportive mentorship ensures that every candidate is given the tools and guidance needed to succeed, whether they’re just starting out or aiming to become an SSI Instructor Trainer themselves.
But what truly sets Oceans 5 apart is its vibrant, international community. Here, you’re not just earning a certification—you’re joining a network of passionate dive professionals who are dedicated to making a difference, both locally and around the world. The team’s collective experience, combined with the leadership of mentors like Ronny Kain, creates an environment where instructors don’t just teach—they inspire.
"Dive where instructors become leaders, shaping the future of dive education." – Ronny Kain
If you’ve ever imagined turning your love for diving into a lifelong career, now is the time to act. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the path from diver to leader is clear, supported every step of the way by a team that believes in your potential. With multiple SSI Instructor Training Courses and Instructor Trainer Courses on the horizon, the opportunity to make your mark in the world of professional diving has never been greater.
Are you ready to join a community that values passion, excellence, and growth? The future of SSI training on Gili Air is bright—and your journey starts here. Come train where instructors become leaders, and let Oceans 5 help you chart your path to success.
