Imagine standing at the edge of a vast underwater world and realizing that your journey as a dive professional is about to reach an entirely new depth. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, that's exactly what happened when they hosted their inaugural SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar, a pivotal moment destined to redefine the boundaries of dive education in Southeast Asia.
Breaking New Ground: Oceans 5’s Leap into SSI Instructor Training
Oceans 5 Gili Air has long been recognized as one of Southeast Asia’s premier dive training centers, known for its dedication to nurturing dive professionals through hands-on mentorship and a strong culture of teaching excellence. Now, the center is making history by hosting its very first SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar—a move that not only marks a new chapter for Oceans 5 but also sets a new standard for professional dive education in the region.
Oceans 5 Gili Air: A Legacy of Professional Dive Education
For years, Oceans 5 Gili Air has been a trusted name for divers seeking to advance their skills and careers. The center’s reputation is built on a foundation of experience, high standards, and a deep respect for the art of teaching. Many divers have taken their first steps into professional diving here, guided by expert instructors and a supportive community. Hosting the SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar is a natural progression for Oceans 5, reflecting its ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in dive training.
Significance of Hosting the First-Ever SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar
The SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar is a prestigious, internationally recognized program designed to elevate experienced dive instructors to the highest level within the SSI system: Instructor Trainer. This 10-day intensive course, held for the first time at Oceans 5 Gili Air, brought together seven accomplished candidates, each ready to take on the responsibility of shaping the next generation of SSI instructors.
Under the expert guidance of Ronny Kain and a diverse team of seasoned educators, candidates underwent rigorous training in leadership, evaluation, and advanced teaching techniques. As Ronny Kain himself put it:
‘Hosting the SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar here is a testament to our commitment to dive education excellence.’
This milestone event not only highlights the growth of Oceans 5 as a leader in dive education but also enhances its visibility and credibility on the global stage.
Elevating Oceans 5’s Status on the Global Dive Education Stage
The successful hosting of the SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar positions Oceans 5 Gili Air as a true trailblazer among SSI ITC Gili Islands centers. With two of its own—Ramon and Warren “Waz”—now officially certified as SSI Instructor Trainers, Oceans 5 is the only center on Gili Air with two in-house Instructor Trainers. This achievement means future candidates can expect even more quality, guidance, and expertise as they pursue their professional goals.
The seminar’s impact goes beyond the walls of Oceans 5. By training new Instructor Trainers, the center is directly contributing to the global dive community, ensuring that the highest standards of safety, leadership, and education are upheld worldwide. The presence of seven candidates from diverse backgrounds further cements Oceans 5’s reputation as a hub for international dive professionals.
With this bold step, Oceans 5 Gili Air has not only broken new ground in SSI Instructor Training but has also set a new benchmark for what’s possible in professional dive education across the Gili Islands and beyond.
From Expert Divers to Mentor Leaders: Transforming Teaching Mastery
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the journey from expert diver to mentor leader is more than a career step—it’s a transformation in teaching mastery. The SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar (ITS), hosted for the first time at this renowned dive center, sets a new benchmark in SSI Instructor Training by focusing not just on technical proficiency, but on developing advanced leadership and mentorship skills. This 10-day intensive program is designed to push experienced instructors beyond their comfort zones, preparing them to become the next generation of SSI Instructor Trainers.
The Demanding Nature of SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar
The SSI ITS is recognized for its rigorous and comprehensive approach to professional development. Over ten days, seven highly qualified candidates—including Oceans 5’s own Ramon and Warren “Waz”—are immersed in a curriculum that blends academic theory, practical application, and leadership training. Under the guidance of industry leader Ronny Kain, candidates are challenged to refine their teaching techniques, deepen their understanding of SSI standards, and master the art of instructor evaluation.
‘This seminar is more than a course; it’s a professional transformation.’ – Ronny Kain
Rigorous Evaluation: Academic, Practical, and Leadership Skills
The seminar’s evaluation process is both thorough and multidimensional. Candidates are assessed on their ability to deliver high-level teaching presentations, both in the classroom and underwater. The instructor evaluation criteria include:
Academic Knowledge: Mastery of SSI standards, theory, and teaching methodologies.
Teaching Presentations: Delivering clear, engaging, and effective lessons to instructor-level students.
Confined and Open Water Assessments: Demonstrating advanced skills in both controlled and real-world diving environments.
Leadership and Mentoring: Guiding, assessing, and inspiring future instructors through effective mentorship and evaluation.
Professional Conduct and Decision-Making: Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and judgment.
Candidates are expected to excel in both academic and practical competencies, reflecting the seminar’s commitment to producing well-rounded, adaptable leaders in dive education. The focus extends beyond technical diving—emphasizing the importance of communication, mentorship, and the ability to inspire others.
Developing Confident SSI Instructor Trainers
The ultimate goal of the SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar at Oceans 5 Gili Air is clear: to transform skilled instructors into confident, capable, and inspiring SSI Instructor Trainers. These professionals will not only teach future instructors but also set new standards for teaching techniques and leadership within the global diving community.
By the end of the seminar, those who meet the demanding standards earn the privilege and responsibility to certify new SSI Instructors—shaping the future of dive education both at Oceans 5 and around the world. With Ramon and Waz now officially recognized as SSI Instructor Trainers, Oceans 5 Gili Air stands as a beacon of excellence in professional development and instructor training.
Celebrating New SSI Instructor Trainers: Ramon and Waz’s Journey
Oceans 5 Gili Air has reached a remarkable milestone in professional dive education by officially certifying two of its most dedicated educators, Ramon and Warren “Waz,” as SSI Instructor Trainers. Their achievement not only marks a personal triumph but also represents a significant leap forward for the dive center’s commitment to excellence in SSI Instructor Certification and instructor training courses.
Ramon and Waz: From Seasoned Educators to SSI Instructor Trainers
Both Ramon and Waz have long been recognized for their expertise, leadership, and passion for teaching within the Oceans 5 family. Their journey through the rigorous 10-day SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar (ITS) was a testament to their dedication and skill. This seminar, the first of its kind at Oceans 5, challenged them to refine their teaching philosophy, leadership abilities, and evaluation techniques—transforming them from experienced instructors into leaders capable of shaping the next generation of dive professionals.
As the center’s first two SSI Instructor Trainers, Ramon and Waz now hold the highest educational role within the SSI system. Their new qualifications empower them to conduct SSI Instructor Certification programs, directly mentoring and certifying future instructors. This achievement is a clear reflection of Oceans 5’s ongoing growth and its unwavering commitment to developing world-class dive educators.
The Impact of Two Dedicated Instructor Trainers Onsite
With Ramon and Waz now certified, Oceans 5 Gili Air stands out as the only SSI Instructor Training Center on Gili Air with two SSI Instructor Trainers onsite. This unique advantage brings several key benefits to the center and its professional candidates:
Enhanced Training Quality: Having two Instructor Trainers ensures that every SSI Instructor Training Course is delivered with the highest standards of quality, consistency, and personal attention.
Greater Support for Candidates: Future instructors benefit from direct mentorship and guidance, gaining access to a wealth of experience and diverse teaching styles.
Stronger Professional Development: The presence of two trainers fosters a collaborative learning environment, encouraging innovation and continuous improvement in teaching methods.
This milestone not only strengthens the teaching team at Oceans 5 but also elevates the center’s reputation as a leader in professional dive education throughout Southeast Asia and beyond.
Symbolizing Commitment to Excellence and Growth
The certification of Ramon and Waz as SSI Instructor Trainers is more than an individual accomplishment—it symbolizes Oceans 5’s dedication to setting new standards in instructor development. Their journey inspires both current and future instructors, highlighting the center’s focus on quality, mentorship, and ongoing professional growth.
‘Your dedication and passion for teaching inspire future instructors and elevate our team.’ – Oceans 5 Dive Center Management
With the first SSI Instructor Trainer Course scheduled to begin on February 13, Oceans 5 Gili Air is poised to offer even more opportunities for aspiring dive professionals. The presence of two onsite SSI Instructor Trainers ensures that every candidate receives the support, expertise, and encouragement needed to succeed at the highest level of SSI Instructor Certification.
Course Essentials: What Aspiring SSI Instructor Trainers Need to Know
10-Day Intensive Course Structure
The SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar at Oceans 5 Gili Air is a comprehensive, 10-day program designed for experienced dive professionals ready to take the next step in their careers. This intensive course is structured to challenge candidates both academically and practically, ensuring they are fully prepared for the responsibilities of an SSI Instructor Trainer. Each day is filled with a blend of classroom sessions, confined water exercises, and open water evaluations, all under the guidance of internationally recognized trainers.
Academic Sessions: Candidates deepen their understanding of SSI standards, teaching methodologies, and dive theory.
Confined Water Evaluations: Practical skills are refined in a controlled environment, focusing on demonstration quality and safety.
Open Water Sessions: Real-world scenarios test leadership, problem-solving, and instructional abilities.
Leadership Assessments: Emphasis is placed on mentoring, evaluating, and inspiring future instructors.
The course culminates in a rigorous Instructor Evaluation, where each candidate must demonstrate mastery across all areas to earn certification.
Strict Prerequisites for Candidate Readiness
To maintain the highest standards, only those who meet strict prerequisites are eligible for the seminar. As Ronny Kain states:
‘Preparation and prerequisites ensure only the most qualified candidates undergo this professional journey.’
Minimum Age: 18 years old
Logged Dives: 60-100 open water dives, demonstrating broad experience
Certifications: Current SSI Divemaster (or equivalent) and React Right (first aid/CPR/O2) certifications
Medical Clearance: Recent diving medical signed by a physician
These prerequisites ensure that every participant arrives with the necessary background, skills, and health to succeed in this demanding environment.
Instructor Evaluation and Course Outcomes
A defining feature of the SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar is the final Instructor Evaluation. This assessment measures each candidate’s ability to deliver instructor-level presentations, conduct thorough academic and water-based evaluations, and demonstrate exemplary professional conduct. Only those who meet or exceed SSI’s global standards will earn the title of SSI Instructor Trainer.
Upon successful completion, graduates are certified to:
Conduct and certify future SSI Instructors worldwide
Lead a range of SSI professional courses, including Extended Range and Dive Guide programs
Mentor and evaluate instructor candidates, shaping the next generation of dive educators
This certification not only opens doors to global teaching opportunities but also positions graduates as leaders within the SSI community.
Course Dates and Ongoing Opportunities
Oceans 5 Gili Air’s first SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar sets a new standard for professional dive education in the region. With regular course dates and a growing team of certified Instructor Trainers, aspiring candidates have more opportunities than ever to advance their careers in a supportive, world-class environment.
The journey from instructor to Instructor Trainer is both challenging and rewarding—requiring dedication, experience, and a passion for teaching excellence. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, candidates are empowered to reach their highest potential and make a lasting impact on the future of dive education.
Looking Ahead: Oceans 5’s Vision for Dive Education and Beyond
With the successful completion of its first SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar, Oceans 5 Gili Air has reached a pivotal moment in its journey as a leader in professional dive education. The addition of two new SSI Instructor Trainers, Waz and Ramon, marks a significant expansion of the center’s training capabilities. This achievement not only enhances the quality and frequency of training sessions but also strengthens Oceans 5’s position as a premier destination for aspiring dive professionals seeking world-class mentorship and professional development.
Oceans 5’s commitment to excellence is evident in its approach to nurturing the next generation of dive educators. By investing in the growth of its instructional team, the center ensures that every SSI Instructor Course and Instructor Trainer Seminar is delivered with unmatched expertise and passion. As Ronny Kain, the seminar leader, aptly stated,
‘We’re not just training instructors; we’re shaping the future of the diving industry.’
This philosophy is at the heart of Oceans 5’s mission, driving the team to maintain the highest standards in every aspect of dive education.
The future looks bright for those seeking to advance their careers in scuba diving. With two SSI Instructor Trainers now available on-site, Oceans 5 can offer more frequent and comprehensive SSI Instructor Trainer Courses. The next course is already scheduled to begin on February 13, 2026, providing a clear pathway for experienced instructors who wish to take the next step and become leaders in the industry. These upcoming course dates reflect Oceans 5’s proactive approach to supporting continuous professional development and ensuring that opportunities for growth are always within reach for dedicated divers.
Oceans 5’s vision extends beyond simply certifying instructors. The center is dedicated to fostering a culture of mentorship, innovation, and lifelong learning. Each training session is designed not only to impart technical skills but also to inspire confidence, leadership, and a deep respect for the underwater world. By maintaining rigorous standards and a supportive learning environment, Oceans 5 empowers its candidates to excel both in the classroom and in the water, preparing them to make a positive impact on the global diving community.
As the only SSI Instructor Training Center on Gili Air with two resident Instructor Trainers, Oceans 5 is uniquely positioned to lead the way in professional dive education. The center’s ongoing investment in its team and its training programs ensures that it will continue to set the benchmark for quality, safety, and innovation in the industry. For those ready to transform their passion for diving into a rewarding career, Oceans 5 offers the ideal environment to learn, grow, and succeed.
Looking ahead, Oceans 5 remains steadfast in its mission to expand access to high-level dive education and to support the professional ambitions of divers from around the world. With new course dates on the horizon and a renewed focus on excellence, the center invites all aspiring instructors to join a community where instructors truly become leaders—and where the future of dive education is being shaped every day.
