Meet the Ocean Tribe Crew

MARK “SLINKY”- FOUNDER

SSI INSTRUCTOR TRAINER & PADI COURSE DIRECTOR – (DIVES 4500+)

Mark, originally from Great Britain, has been diving since 2001 when he took his first plunge in Australia. With over 20 years as a professional diver, he has earned over 125 diving certifications including both SSI Instructor Trainer and PADI Course Director, making him an extremely experienced dive professional.

His favorite dive site in Diani is Mwanyaza, the first place he encountered whale sharks and dolphins underwater. His ultimate dive experience so far remains the Great Barrier Reef but there are always more places to dive and discover.

Beyond diving, Mark enjoys photography, cooking, traveling, and following sports. What he loves most about working for Ocean Tribe is the fantastic dive team, incredible dive sites, and the close-knit, family feel.

Whether training new instructors or exploring the deep, Mark is always ready for the next underwater adventure!

Read more about Mark here……

LISA- DIVE CENTRE MANAGER

SSI ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR TRAINER & PADI IDC STAFF (DIVES 6000+)

Lisa, originally from Germany, is a highly skilled Staff Instructor and Freediver. Her love for the water started early, and she took her first dive in 2005 in Fuerteventura. Coming from a background in synchronized swimming and freediving, scuba diving was the next natural step—and she’s been hooked ever since!

For Lisa, life without water is like a teabag without water—it just doesn’t make sense. Her favorite dive sites include Ras Mohammed in Egypt and Alfa Funguo in Diani, where she gets to explore the underwater world in all its beauty.

When she’s not diving, you’ll find Lisa freediving, spearfishing, gardening, making music, or catching up on sleep. She loves Ocean Tribe for its diverse opportunities, catering to everyone from beginners to professionals. She also appreciates the team’s passion for marine conservation and, of course, she thinks Henry is the cutest! 

SHADY- INSTRUCTOR

SSI DIVEMASTER INSTRUCTOR & PADI MSDT (DIVES 7000+)

Shadrack Kayaa “Slim Shady”, from Kilifi County, is a passionate Open Water Scuba Instructor with years of diving experience. His journey began in 1997 in Watamu, and since then, he has been hooked on exploring the underwater world.

His favorite dive site? Shark Point in Mombasa Marine Park! The vibrant marine life and thrilling encounters make it an unforgettable spot.

When he’s not diving, Shady enjoys watching football. His love for the ocean drives him to keep exploring and sharing his knowledge with new divers.

Looking for expert dive training? Dive in with Shady at Ocean Tribe! 

STEPH- INSTRUCTOR

SSI DIVEMASTER INSTRUCTOR & PADI OWSI (DIVES 1000+)

Steph, an SSI Divemaster Instructor and PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, hails from central Kenya and has been passionate about the ocean since her first dive in 2019 at Kilifi. Driven by a deep curiosity about marine ecosystems, she took the plunge to explore and understand underwater life firsthand.

Her favorite dive site is the breathtaking Takaungu Wall in Kilifi, where vibrant marine life and dramatic underwater landscapes make every dive unforgettable. When she’s not diving, Steph loves spending time in nature, whether it’s hiking, exploring, or simply soaking in the beauty of the outdoors.

At Ocean Tribe, Steph enjoys the variety of courses and hands-on exposure that help divers of all levels grow in their skills and confidence. Whether you’re taking your first breath underwater or advancing your training, Steph is ready to guide you on your diving journey with expertise and enthusiasm!

CHRIS- INSTRUCTOR

SSI SPECIALTY INSTRUCTOR, PADI OWSI & GUE FUNDAMENTAL DIVER (DIVES 800+)

Chris, originally from Germany, discovered scuba diving while serving in the Navy. However, his love for the ocean started much earlier—his father was a marine biologist, and that passion for the underwater world inspired him from a young age.

His favorite dive sites include the breathtaking Raja Ampat and Alpha Funguo in Diani, where he gets to explore vibrant marine life. When he’s not diving, Chris is always looking for his next adventure. He loves off-road safaris, exploring in his Land Rover, and anything that gets his adrenaline pumping.

With a passion for both land and sea, Chris brings experience, enthusiasm, and a love for adventure to Ocean Tribe

ISAAC- DIVEMASTER

DIVEMASTER (DIVES 3000+)

Isaac Kitsao Changawa, a PADI Divemaster from Kilifi County, started his diving journey in 2007 in Malindi and Watamu. What began as an adventure quickly became a life-changing passion, inspiring him to transform not only his own life but also those around him.

His favorite dive sites, Kisima Mungu and Galu, hold special meaning, offering breathtaking underwater experiences. When he’s not diving, Isaac enjoys reading novels, playing the keyboard, and immersing himself in music.

At Ocean Tribe, he continues to grow, gaining more diving experience and sharing his love for the ocean. Ready to dive? Isaac is here to guide you!

JACINTA- DIVEMASTER & MERMAID

DIVEMASTER, FREEDIVER AND MERMAID (DIVES 130+)

Jacinta Kimani, also known as Nimo, is a passionate Divemaster, Mermaid, and Freediver from Murang’a, Kenya. She took her first dive in 2023 in Diani, and it completely changed her life. What started as a way to better understand her job quickly turned into a hobby and career. Diving not only helped her conquer her fears but also gave her a sense of peace and freedom beneath the waves.

Her favorite dive site? Galu! It holds a special place in her heart because it was her first dive spot, and she got to swim with turtles—an experience she will never forget.

When she’s not underwater, Nimo loves dancing, photography, modeling, and, of course, diving. She thrives at Ocean Tribe because she gets to meet people from all over the world. Who knows? Maybe she’ll even meet her future husband here! Interested?

Want to dive with Nimo? Join her at Ocean Tribe and explore the underwater world together! 

PHELIX- TANKS AND LOGISTICS

Phelix Malongo, from Vihiga County in Western Province, is a passionate adventurer who loves swimming and exploring new places. His social nature and ability to work with anyone make him a great team player.

At Ocean Tribe, Phelix has found the perfect place to thrive. He enjoys the peaceful and cool environment, where he meets new people and shares his love for the ocean.

Looking for a friendly face on your next diving adventure? Phelix is always ready to welcome you! 

NASIBU – BOAT DRIVER

EX

RAMA- BOAT HAND

OPEN WATER DIVER

Rama Katana, from Kilifi, is an enthusiastic Open Water Diver with a passion for the underwater world. His diving journey began on February 8, 2024, at Jadini, and since then, he has been eager to explore more beneath the waves.

His favorite dive site? Galu! The rich marine life and stunning underwater scenery make every dive unforgettable.

When he’s not diving, Rama enjoys watching and playing football. He loves being part of Ocean Tribe, a 5-star dive center, where he gets to grow his skills and meet fellow ocean lovers.

HENRY- DIVE DOG

Mark’s dog Henry is ever present around the dive centre to greet divers when they come back from diving. He will be more than happy to frolic with you in the surf and just generally give love and attention. The best dive centre mascot. Warning though: He is a total scrounger for food and affection!