Bassel Ounah is not just a name in the diving industry but a force behind the growing integration of technology with underwater exploration. With a deep passion for both the ocean and cutting-edge technology, Ounah has pushed the boundaries of what is possible within the realms of freediving, marine education, and environmental advocacy. His work with Neptune’s Submerge and Apnea Zone reflects his commitment to transforming how people experience and understand the ocean, all while ensuring its protection for future generations.
At the core of Ounah’s innovative approach is Neptune’s Submerge, a platform that has revolutionized how divers train by using immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). In a typical freediving scenario, divers face the unpredictable elements of the ocean, including strong currents, visibility challenges, and the sheer pressure of open water. These factors can create stress for even seasoned divers. Ounah recognized the potential to change that through the development of training simulations that mirror real-world environments in a safe and controlled setting.
Imagine learning to dive into a coral reef not through textbooks but by experiencing a highly detailed, lifelike VR simulation. This is the magic Neptune’s Submerge offers. The simulations allow divers to practice breathing techniques, familiarize themselves with ocean conditions, and navigate underwater landscapes without the immediate risks of deep-sea diving. It’s a forward-thinking approach that sets Ounah apart, emphasizing the safety and enrichment of divers’ experiences. Freediving demands intense mental and physical control, and Ounah’s methods equip divers to handle these demands before they take their first plunge.
But what truly sets Ounah’s work apart is his determination to incorporate environmental sustainability into every aspect of his ventures. Growing up along the coast, he developed a deep respect for marine ecosystems and has carried this respect throughout his career. His “Drops in the Oceans” campaign is one example of his commitment to raising awareness about marine conservation. Using VR, this campaign showcases the impact of human activity on coral reefs, allowing participants to witness the degradation of these vital ecosystems over time. It’s a compelling use of technology to drive home a critical message about conservation.
Ounah’s collaborations with various academic institutions have also been pivotal in advancing his mission. His partnership with The University of Salford, particularly its Center of Digital Innovation (CDI) and Centre for Sustainable Innovation (CSI), has enabled Neptune’s Submerge to develop cutting-edge immersive experiences.
Ounah’s influence extends beyond Neptune’s Submerge. As the head of Apnea Zone, a Dubai-based freediving center, he has taken his passion for the ocean to new heights. Apnea Zone is not just about teaching people to dive; it’s about fostering a connection between participants and the underwater world. The center offers a wide range of activities, including spearfishing and mermaiding; a performance art where individuals swim using mermaid tails, mimicking the fluid grace of mythical sea creatures.
Ounah’s efforts have caught the attention of major organizations, both in the tech and conservation sectors. Neptune’s Submerge has collaborated with companies like AVimmerse and Metaverse Learning, which specialize in immersive technologies. These partnerships have enhanced the quality of VR simulations and helped Neptune’s Submerge make a significant impact on divers, students, and the general public alike.
Consider a classroom where students don VR headsets and find themselves immersed in a virtual underwater world. Instead of reading about marine biology, they can explore coral reefs, observe fish in their natural habitats, and experience firsthand the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. Ounah’s collaborations with educational institutions are paving the way for such experiences to become commonplace in schools and universities.
Ounah’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed in policy circles either. His recent candidacy for Manchester City Council highlights his determination to bring sustainable practices to the forefront of urban planning. He believes that technology can play a crucial role in making cities more eco-friendly, from reducing carbon footprints to improving water management systems.
It’s this ability to think beyond the conventional that has made Ounah a trailblazer in both the diving and tech communities. His efforts to merge immersive technology with marine education have opened new doors for understanding and preserving the ocean. As a thought leader, he frequently speaks at international conferences, sharing his insights into the future of AR, VR, and sustainability.
In summary, Bassel Ounah’s contributions to the worlds of diving, technology, and marine conservation are shaping the future of how we interact with the ocean. Through Neptune’s Submerge and Apnea Zone, he has created platforms that offer more than just training; they provide an opportunity to rethink our relationship with the underwater world. Ounah’s work reminds us that with the right blend of innovation, education, and passion, we can protect the oceans for generations to come. His journey from the coastal shores of his childhood to the cutting edge of immersive technology is a testament to what can be achieved when one is driven by curiosity and a desire to make a difference.