Explore the deep ocean with Zandile Ndhlovu
Dive into the extraordinary world beneath the ocean's surface with Zandile Ndhlovu, as she takes us on a journey of discovery deep down below
Zandile was home after venturing beneath the surface of the ocean for the first time
After venturing beneath the surface of the ocean for the first time in her life at 28, Zandile Ndhlovu was instantly at home. This was when she realised she needed to help make the sea more accessible to a diverse group of South Africans. And so she decided to become a 'mermaid'. Zandile is South Africa's first black female freediving instructor and she's working to expand the narrative around black people and water with a new book, as well as an international film. She also set up the Black Mermaid Foundation, which works to create diverse representation in ocean spaces, in sports, careers and recreationally. We convinced Zandi to surface long enough to share a few seafaring tales and tell us how she's dedicated her life to making a splash.
How did you go from not knowing the ocean to becoming a mermaid?
On a trip to Bali in 2016, I went snorkelling and it changed my life. I had never seen anything so beautiful, and from that moment on I knew that I wanted to discover what else lived beneath the ocean's surface. I later learnt to scuba dive and then progressed to freediving, which is my greatest passion. Upon receiving my instructor's certificate, I became the first black female freediving instructor in South Africa.
Explain the appeal of life under the sea?
I love how vast and daunting it is. Just watching the sea change from day to day is awesome. Also, to witness so much incredible life, big and small, that lives under water, is an incredible wonder.
Tell us about the new film you're featured in
Shaped by Water is a love letter to the ocean. It's a story of the connectedness of our waters from the highest mountains to the deepest seas. All streams run down to the ocean and however we interact with the ocean, we are affected by it in some way. The film follows me, a free diver; a professional skier, Jess Hotter; and the 11th hour Racing Team, and is about how we interact with the ocean. Told in two parts, it's an art piece and a documentary that tells the story of our connection to the water and our journey with fear. It's a truly incredible piece of work.
And your new book?
I recently published a children's book, available in all bookstores nationwide, called Zandi's Song. We launched it at the V&A Waterfront's Exclusive Books in June, to an absolutely incredible turnout, and I am excited to see where it will go.
Tell us about your foundation and the work you're doing here
I started the Black Mermaid Foundation in 2020, working to create access to ocean spaces, knowing that where you live doesn't equate to access. Our main work is snorkel excursions with children between the ages of 10 and 15 from Langa, a township in Cape Town. Kids learn about the marine life we encounter at sea, and the challenges that the ocean faces, then we go exploring. It's incredible to see kids move from a place of fear to curiosity. It's a beautiful experience when you can't get them out of the water.
Where are some of your favourite places to dive locally?
In Cape Town, I love Windmill Beach and Miller's Point. These are beautiful spots that can vary in depth and life. In KwaZulu-Natal, definitely Sodwana Bay where you'll encounter whales, sharks, and manta rays... It's a place of oceanic magic!
Which oceans have you explored and what's still on your bucket list?
I've had the incredible privilege to dive the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans, and I still hope to dive in Antarctica. Actually, any kind of ice diving would be a dream. Besides this, I hope to dive with sperm whales in the Dominican Republic and experience a close encounter with humpback whales and orcas in French Polynesian waters.
Which sea creatures have you encountered and what's it like to be so close to them?
I have seen humpback whales, Bryde's whales and great white, bull, tiger and whale sharks, all kinds of dolphins, various turtle species and the highly intelligent octopus. The best comparison is to being in outer space. It's a liberating feeling that allows you to step into the unknown. Something you learn in freediving is to pause, stop and consider what's in front of you, and not follow the usual fight-or-flight response. There's so much to learn from the ocean. Each dive expands your horizons, and it's incredible to experience this.
What's the biggest benefit of getting so much 'vitamin sea'?
I'd say mental health. I always go out to sea to process my life or whenever things feel too big for me to handle. The ocean is one of the few places in the world where you can go and not have to hear anyone speak. It's just you and the awe of creation. It's a powerful place.