Fakeye | Freediving Instructor | Photographer | Europe
Driven by the beauty of our planet, Fakeye does his part to inspire others through his work as a diving instructor. Through this, he hopes that others fall in love with the world as much as he has, and are inspired to change their lifestyle in a way that can benefit humanity and the Earth.
“Why go to the moon when we don't even know our oceans” Fakeye
What is a typical day like for you?
I tend to chill in the morning if possible (I love to have a good tea and a banana!) and get slowly started towards the water. I always try to freedive in the morning with a light stomach and then in the afternoon I do more computer related work. Of course social life is important to keep a balance so I love to have dinner with my friends and spend the evening relaxing.
When did you first pick up a camera and start shooting underwater?
In Thailand in 2011 with the first GoPro HD. I was terrible but I loved the fact that I could show my family how beautiful it was down there!
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
I began scuba diving because a friend ask me to. I had no clue about it, or about the ocean. 2 months after that I flew to Thailand to train as a divemaster, and a year later I discovered freediving. I managed to save up enough to take freediving courses to become an instructor and it became my job. I don't regret any of my choices, I followed my dream and I still do! That's the most important thing in life, do what you love.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
Exploring. It was the best choice of my life, it opened my mind and I changed in a good way. My lifestyle, what I eat, how I consume, my activities, the value I share, everything came from travelling. I was very different before that and I never looked back.
What do you value most in life?
Doing what I love. I feel free by doing so, it gives me opportunities, I meet incredible people, the motivation and the hope are something that drives me. And of course family and friends, everything is linked as they travel to meet me or vice versa, I can share my experiences and teach them what I learned.
What brings you the most joy?
My best friend and being in the water.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
Everything! But to put a finger on it, our consumption. From clothes to food, everything is too much. We always want more, and our behaviour is killing the planet.
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking?
Books by Jacques Cousteau, documentaries from David Attenborough, organisation like Sea Shepherd, movies like ‘Sharkwater’, ‘The End of the Line’, ‘Seaspiracy’ and so on. The list is long... But Sea Shepherd was one of the biggest impacts for me. I even tried to join the crew but it did not work out… never too late to try again!
What legacy do you hope to leave?
I hope to leave a positive image and good values. I wish people will remember the good vibes but as well the passion I have for what I do.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an ocean Storyteller?
Live your dream and the story will create itself. I never spoke about myself or my life, I'm someone who hates to brag or showoff. If I share it's because I feel it gives something important to the people. Experiences in life will be the stories you will share.
