Billy Ferguson our latest Sharks4Kids Ambassador is just 15, but he is already a big voice for sharks in the Bahamas. His two older brothers are both shark diving guides and feeders in Bimini at Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center, so shark diving is truly a family affair. He is spreading shark conservation and shark education at his school and throughout his community. We had the pleasure of taking Billy diving with us in Bimini and we are so proud to share his shark story. He joined us while we were filming for Sharkwater II, a very powerful film started by Rob Stewart.
1. What is your favorite shark and why?
The hammerhead shark is my favorite because it was the first shark I ever fed.
2. What is one species of shark you would like to dive with or see in the wild?
I would love to see and dive with a great white shark.
3. Why did want to learn to scuba dive and where did you learn?
I wanted to learn about scuba diving because two of my brothers Robin and Jamie are divers and they made it look like so much fun so I wanted to be behind them. I learned to dive at Neal Watson Bimini Scuba Center.
4. What the first species of shark you saw underwater? What was it like?
The first species of shark I saw was the Caribbean reef shark. It was amazing to be so close to a beautiful creature.
5. Why do want be a shark dive guide?
I want to be a shark dive guide because I love sharks and I love being underwater.
6. Why is shark diving so important in the Bahamas? For you?
Shark diving is important to the Bahamas because it brings people from all of the world to our island to see these amazing creatures. It also brings in a lot of money to the Bahamas and it allows divers like my brothers to feed their families. For me shark diving is important because it allows me to get up close to the sharks without fear and comfort in knowing that I can learn a lot from just being down there with them.
7. Why is being an ambassador for sharks important to you?
Being an ambassador for sharks is important for me because it will give me an opportunity to educate others about sharks and also help protect them. This is very big for me being a young person and I am very proud to be an ambassador for the creatures I love so much.