Ahmed Rokka: Master of the Waves and Beyond

The turquoise waters of the Maldives have always held a certain allure, beckoning tourists and locals alike. But for Ahmed Rokka, his connection to the aquatic paradise took an unexpected turn, leading him on a remarkable journey from a hesitant receptionist to a celebrated watersports manager and trainer.

Rokka’s initial foray into the Maldivian tourism industry was far from the adrenaline-pumping world of watersports. He set his sights on a front office receptionist position at Holiday Island Resort, seeking a stable career path. However, fate had other plans. Recognizing his potential and driven spirit, the resort recommended Rokka join their watersports center. Despite his initial reservations, he embraced the opportunity, viewing it as a chance to explore different avenues and gain valuable experience.

Little did Rokka know, this seemingly innocuous decision would ignite a passion within him, one that would forever alter the course of his life. The allure of the ocean, the thrill of aquatic activities, and the camaraderie of the watersports team quickly captivated him. He immersed himself in learning, devouring knowledge and honing his skills with unwavering dedication. His natural talent and enthusiasm shone through, and within a short time, he had mastered various aspects of the trade, from operating boats and managing equipment to instructing others in the intricacies of windsurfing, diving, and other water sports.

Rokka’s exceptional performance did not go unnoticed. His commitment and expertise earned him a well-deserved promotion within two years, propelling him to the role of Watersports Manager at Paradise Island Resort. This marked the beginning of a meteoric rise through the ranks of the Maldivian watersports industry. His leadership qualities, combined with his in-depth knowledge and infectious enthusiasm, made him a valuable asset to any team.

In 2011, Rokka’s talents were sought after by Sun Island Resort, home to the largest watersports center in the country. He readily accepted the challenge, eager to contribute his expertise and lead a team of passionate individuals. Here, he thrived in the fast-paced environment, overseeing operations, ensuring safety standards, and fostering a culture of excellence within the center.

Rokka’s thirst for knowledge and his desire to continually expand his skillset extended beyond the practical aspects of watersports. He embarked on a quest for formal qualifications, pursuing an MBA from the University of Sunderland. This academic achievement, coupled with his extensive practical experience, solidified his position as a true authority in the field.

Rokka’s dedication extended far beyond his own professional development. He recognized the importance of nurturing future generations of watersports enthusiasts and sharing his knowledge with aspiring individuals. From 2011 to 2017, he served as a visiting lecturer at Villa College, Faculty of Marine Studies, imparting his expertise in watersports, transport, diving, and hazard management to eager students. Witnessing their growth and seeing them embark on successful careers in the industry brought him immense satisfaction.

In 2015, Rokka joined Best Dives Maldives at Jumeirah Vittaveli, his thirst for new challenges and diverse experiences ever-present. Here, he applied his multifaceted skills to manage various aspects of the resort’s leisure offerings, encompassing excursions, watersports, transportation, diving, and other sporting activities. His ability to seamlessly handle diverse responsibilities and ensure exceptional guest experiences further cemented his reputation as a versatile and dependable leader.

Rokka’s journey culminated in 2018 when he joined Velaa Private Island as the Recreational Manager. This prestigious role entrusted him with overseeing a wide range of activities, including excursions, watersports, transportation, diving, and other sports, ensuring guests enjoyed an unparalleled level of leisure and entertainment.

Throughout his remarkable career, Rokka has amassed an impressive collection of certifications, solidifying his expertise in various watersports disciplines. From VDWS Windsurfing, Catamaran & School Management Instructor certifications to PADI specialties like Deep Diver, Enriched Air Nitrox, and Sidemount Diver, his qualifications speak volumes about his dedication to continuous learning and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.

However, Rokka’s greatest satisfaction lies not in accolades or achievements, but in the impact he has made on others. He takes immense pride in having trained over 70 individuals in various watersports, some of whom have even gone on to hold managerial positions within the industry. Witnessing their success and knowing that he played a role in shaping their careers brings him immense fulfillment.

Ahmed Rokka’s story is a testament to the power of embracing unexpected opportunities, pursuing passions with unwavering dedication, and constantly striving for excellence. From a hesitant receptionist to a celebrated watersports guru and mentor, his journey serves as an inspiration to all who dare to challenge themselves, embrace new horizons, and leave their mark on the world.