Emma Li | Master Freediving & Mermaid Instructor | Photographer | Bali

Emma hasn’t always had the privilege of spending her days in the ocean. Previous to quitting her job to pursue her passion and live around the coast, Emma had been working the 9-5 life in a big city. When she got the offer to work as a Freediving instructor in ApneaBali, she simply couldn’t have envisioned the life she leads today.

Where are you from?  

I’m Chinese and living in Bali now

What’s your profession? 

I’m a master freediving instructor and mermaid instructor at ApneaBali. And I love to play my camera underwater no matter freediving, scuba diving or surfing.

What is a typical day like for you?

My day will start from early morning at 7 am where I walk my dogs and have a nice coffee. After that, I’ll jump into the ocean to train freediving or my photography. Sometimes, if I’m not going to water, I’ll explore in the island to see something new, to talk with locals. And my day will end with an amazing sunset on the beach or near the volcano.

What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today? 

I was working in a big city and one day, i had enough this life. So I quit my job and move to Sri Lanka. During these days, my mindset changed, I realised life is too short not try something new. Before I knew it, I had a job offer from Bali, so i moved there and fell in love with this amazing island. I’m now enjoying my life meeting new friends and listening to their stories. 

What/who currently inspires you?

My boss Eli Dipp, who inspires me to have my camera. And also Julia Mouce, my other boss, we are like family！We are travelling around the world with our camera and our fins to record what we see, what we feel, and what we want to do/ help with Ocean or marlin life or locals.

What path did you choose after leaving school?

I was working in an office with Airlines company. Thanks to this job, it opens my eyes and knows more about new things.

What have been the biggest challenges you've had to overcome? 

It’s my English skill. :） My first and second mother languages are not English. So I need to work hard at English.

What would you most like to change in the world/environment today? 

I’ll like to convince people to use less plastic!!!!!!!

What do you value most in life? 

Life is so meaningful and beautiful even if we don’t know when it will end. 

Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking? 

Books I read, things I experienced, the stories I’ve told, all of these things have guided my thinking.

What brings you the most joy? 

Being in the water！

What legacy do you hope to leave? 

My pictures and my stories or my music.

Instagram - @emmadiving