Protect
our Pride
Scholarships for Professional Certification in Recreational Diving.
About Protect Our Pride
Since 2013, the Protect Our Pride initiative has helped local youth access dive certifications and jobs in the marine tourism industry, strengthening skills, boosting employment, and cultivating environmental stewards of Roatan’s reefs.
Program Objectives:
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Train and certify islanders as Dive Masters or Instructors.
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Support job creation in sustainable marine tourism.
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Build long-term partnerships between dive shops and the community.
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Educate on reef conservation and good environmental practices
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Promote alternative livelihoods to Roatan locals by opening doors to the dive industry.
The Brady Pitcher
Dive Scholarship 2025
The Brady Pitcher Dive Scholarship, part of our Protect Our Pride initiative, honors the life and legacy of Brady Pitcher, a passionate diver whose deep love for the ocean and commitment to others inspired this year’s scholarship. Created in his memory, the award empowers young islanders who share his passion for the sea and a desire to make a difference.
Brady became a Dive Master not far from where his great-grandfather was born here on Roatan. To honor his love for the ocean and his drive to uplift others, the Prendergast-Pitcher family has partnered with Roatan Marine Park to launch this special edition scholarship.
“Brady always looked for ways to bring out the greatness in others… Roatan is not only where Brady became a Dive Master, it’s also where our roots are. This scholarship is our way of continuing Brady’s legacy by opening doors for the next generation.” - The Prendergast - Pitcher Family
Who can apply?
This scholarship is open to Honduran nationals living in Roatan who are ready to take the next step in their dive careers.
Applicant Profile
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18+ years old
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Minimum 9th grade education
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Bilingual (English & Spanish)
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Resident of Roatan for 5+ years
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Completed: Open Water, Advanced Open Water, and Rescue Diver
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40 logged dives minimum.
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Strong ties to the island and strong commitment to protect its marine ecosystems
Scholar
Responsibilities
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Cover the PADI/SSI inscription fee and physical exam
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Attend all scheduled training and coursework
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Dedicate 50 hours of volunteer community work
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Participate in RMP social media publications
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Act as an ambassador for Roatan’s marine conservation mission
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Maintain regular communication with RMP and the dive shop
What the
Scholarship Covers?
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Dive Master course tuition and materials
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Mentorship from professional dive shops
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Environmental training and conservation leadership
Application Process
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Fill Out the Application
Click Here to Apply Online or visit the RMP office in Sandy Bay
(next to Dolphin House on Anthony’s Key Road)
Submit:
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CV
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Letter of Recommendation
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Certificates (OW, AOW, Rescue)
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Recent Photo
2. Interview
If selected, you’ll receive an email or message to schedule an in-person interview.
Bring hard copies of all documents submitted online.
3. Dive Shop Selection
Choose a local dive shop to complete your course. A joint meeting with RMP and the shop will confirm your placement.
4. Course Begins
Start your certification and begin your volunteer and community engagement responsibilities.
Selection & Oversight
Final candidates will be chosen based on their interview, motivation, dive experience, and commitment to conserving Roatan’s marine ecosystems. Selections are made with input from the Program Manager and participating dive shops. A WhatsApp group with the scholarship holder, RMP, and the dive shop manager will be used for coordination and support throughout the course.
Questions? Contact us: becky.bodden@roatanmarinepark.org and
info@roatanmarinepark.org / (+504) 9580-2283
A Legacy That Lives On
Brady’s passion for the ocean lives on through each youth who earns
their certification, finds purpose, and protects the reef.
One scholarship = one trained Dive Master = one protector of the reef = one transformed life.
Fill out the form for a chance to win
The Brady Pitcher Dive Scholarship
