Erika Lopez - Activist and ocean warrior.
CEO and co-founder of the NGO Biodiversity Conservation Colombia.
With over 32 years of experience in diving, both as a passion and as a career, Erika Lopez is the CEO, co-founder and director of Biodiversity Conservation Colombia. The organisation protects the Malpelo island protected area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, through rigorous surveillance and monitoring, direct action to stop illegal fishing (catch and gear confiscation) as well as marine debris removal, and educational/scientific initiatives. Erika has been there since 2010 also acting as dive guide and national park warden, helping to protect the sanctuary from poachers.
She is a member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame and PADI SEA HERO JULY 2024.
When did you start diving?
I began my diving journey 32 years ago, driven by both passion and a deep sense of purpose. Over the years, diving has become more than just an adventure; it’s been a way to connect with the planet in a profound and meaningful way.
What made you want to become a diver?
I can’t pinpoint the exact moment when my love for the ocean began, but I’ve always felt a strong pull toward protecting all living creatures—whether on land or in the sea. This connection to nature wasn’t just a passion; it was a calling. I knew from an early age that my purpose was to protect the natural world, and diving became the way for me to fulfil that mission.
What is your best/most memorable dive?
Every dive holds a special place in my heart, but one that stands out is a dive I did in Malpelo. We were fortunate enough to witness hundreds of hammerhead sharks on the ocean floor, surrounded by silky sharks, and then, as if by magic, three whale sharks appeared. It was a breathtaking experience that reminded me of the incredible beauty and power of the ocean.
Most gratifying course you took or taught?
The most rewarding course I’ve taken was cavern diving. I’ve always been drawn to the vastness of the open ocean, so exploring the confined spaces of caverns was a challenge for me. But facing that fear and discovering the hidden beauty of underwater caverns was incredibly fulfilling. It was a reminder that sometimes, stepping outside our comfort zones can lead to the most profound experiences.
5 qualities of a great dive pro?
Connection to Nature: Diving should be about connecting with the Earth and discovering who you truly are in the process.
Respect for the Marine Environment: Always remember that the ocean is not your natural habitat, and respect it as such. You are a visitor to a world that belongs to its marine inhabitants.
Commitment to Learning: Never stop learning or listening, especially to those who have spent their lives by the sea. Every piece of knowledge is valuable
Minimizing Impact: Strive to make the least impact possible on the environment. When teaching, instil in your students the importance of protecting the ocean and never using it as a personal dump.
Guardianship: The ocean belongs to the creatures that live in it. Your role is to protect, not exploit, this precious environment.
Do you think women are different divers than men and why?
For me, diving isn’t about whether you’re a woman or a man; it’s about the passion and dedication you bring to the experience. The ocean doesn’t care about labels—it rewards those who dive with respect, care, and a genuine love for the underwater world.
One piece of advice for someone starting diving.
Diving is an incredible way to discover the hidden wonders of our planet, but it comes with a responsibility. Be enthusiastic about exploring, but always remember that you are entering a new and delicate environment. Everything you do underwater should be done with respect and gratitude for the marine ecosystems that you are privileged to experience.
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