Scubapro has launched a photo/essay competition, utilizing submission via Instagram and the company’s Facebook page. The contest is honoring Dr. Sylvia Earle’s contribution to the marine environment. The organisers state that “entries should convey enthusiasm for diving, ocean exploration and/or conservation, in the form of a photo/essay combination.”

Entries are free and the deadline is 10 March.

Press release

SCUBAPRO USA announces its second annual Facebook scholarship contest.

The 2014 honoree is legendary Dr. Sylvia Earle, National Geographic Explorer in Residence, Founder of Deep Ocean Exploration & Research (DOER Marine) and Mission Blue. Dr. Earle, who served on SCUBAPRO’s board in the seventies and recently joined the ranks of SCUBAPRO’s Deep Elite; an ambassador program with a conservation purpose.

The SCUBAPRO Deep Elite Ambassador Scholarship contest honors the impact of Dr. Earle and her work on marine science, exploration, conservation and ocean awareness. She is an inspiration to many above and below the sea, and this contest aims to inspire as well as empower ocean enthusiasts to take their interest to the next level.

“Every diver should be an ambassador for the ocean. Every diver should tell people that fish have a personality, every diver should be out front doing what he can or she can to take care of the ocean. To be a voice for the ocean, because divers see what others don’t, and we need to share the view or at least share our voice,” says Dr. Earle. The Deep Elite Ambassador Scholarship will enable one deserving candidate to do just that.

The contest, sponsored by SCUBAPRO, PADI and Beneath the Sea will be conducted via SCUBAPRO’s Facebook page. Entries should convey enthusiasm for diving, ocean exploration and/or conservation, in the form of a photo/essay combination.

Photos must be submitted via Instagram, using #scubaprocontest2014. The entry period opens at 12:00am PST on 10 February, and closes 12:00 am PST on 10 March, 2014. The winner will receive a full kit of SCUBAPRO dive equipment, valued at up to $5000, and a certification from PADI, valued at $400. The winner will be announced at the Beneath the Sea show in Secaucus, NJ on March 28th, 2014.

Joe Stella GVP Global Diving at Scubapro is quoted “We are pleased and proud to offer this scholarship in our Deep Elite ambassador Dr. Sylvia Earle’s Honor, this is a very exciting opportunity for the right candidate.”