ABOUT OUR TEAM
SOUL SCUBA DIVERS
Photo by Dennis @freediver87
Soul Scuba Divers is a scuba diving center on Kri Island in Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia. We pride ourselves on offering fun diving experiences, but safety and thorough planning is the cornerstone of our diving operations. Visit our FAQs page to learn more about our safety procedures and the dive experience you can expect to have with us.
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For us, scuba diving isn't just about looking at creatures underwater. It allows us to explore the world—and ourselves—in a fulfilling, transformative way. It connects us to nature, compels us to travel the world and invites us into the amazing international community of scuba divers.
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We greatly appreciate being a part of the local community of Raja Ampat. Our mission is to hire local people from Raja Ampat—and also workers from other parts of Indonesia—to be long-term members of our team or help us with projects such as building our dive center and speed boats. Our top priority is to protect the precious marine and terrestrial environments in Raja Ampat, which is why we organize education and conservation projects within the local community. Learn more about their community projects here.
Thibault
Thibault Bancillon is the owner of Soul Scuba Divers. Thibault is from France and loves meeting people from all corners of the world and sharing his passion for the underwater world. He deeply cares about the people of Raja Ampat and is proud to partner with the local families on Kri. He cherishes working hand in hand with locals and spreading environmental awareness.
Superpower: 'Kindest heart in Raja'
Weakness: Struggles to say "no"
Jack
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Jack is the guy who keeps everything running smoothly at Soul Scuba Divers. Hailing from Sumatra, he’s no stranger to the dive world, having previously worked at the bustling Manta Dive in the Gili Islands. Now, he brings his expertise, cool-headedness, and quick problem-solving skills to Raja Ampat.
Whether it’s organizing schedules, keeping the team motivated, or sorting out last-minute surprises (because, let’s face it, island life is full of them), Jack handles it all with ease. Guests love him, staff respect him, and if there’s a problem—chances are Jack has already fixed it before anyone even notices.
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Superpower: Solving problems before they even exist
Weakness: Still searching… we’ll let you know if we find one
Ridha
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Ridha is the engine that keeps Soul Scuba Divers running smoothly. Originally from Aceh, Sumatra, she’s the mastermind behind our admin, bookings, and guest communications. If you’ve ever messaged us and received an instant reply, that was probably Ridha working at lightning speed—some say she types faster than a mantis shrimp strikes.
Despite her efficiency, Ridha prefers to stay behind the scenes, avoiding the spotlight like a shy cuttlefish changing colors. But don’t be fooled—she’s the quiet force that keeps everything (and everyone) in check!
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Superpower: Answering messages before you even finish typing
Weakness: Talking to strangers... unless it’s via email
Ocean team
Instructor
Jack
brings top-notch teaching skills, patience, and a great sense of humor to every course. Whether you’re taking your first breath underwater or mastering advanced techniques, Jack ensures you feel confident, safe, and, most importantly, have fun.
Beyond teaching, Jack is a natural leader, always supporting both students and staff. Quick to solve problems and even quicker to crack a joke, he keeps the dive center running smoothly while making sure everyone enjoys their time in the water.
Superpower: Turning nervous divers into ocean lovers
Weakness: Can’t resist a good post-dive coconut
dive guide
Darwis
Our most experienced dive guide from Ternate.​
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Darwis is always ready to take you safely to the most amazing dive sites and will help you check boxes, whatever you want to see. From megafauna to super macro - he will find it all for you.
Superpower: As versatile as a Swiss army knife
Weakness: We still haven't figured out a way to clone him
DEDE
Dede is one of our fantastic dive guides at Soul Scuba Divers. Hailing from Manado, he brings his laid-back, rasta vibes and a bubbly personality to every dive. With his natural ability to connect with people, Dede makes every guest feel at ease, whether they’re first-time divers or seasoned underwater explorers.
Beyond his friendly nature, Dede is a skilled dive guide with a keen eye for spotting hidden marine life. He’s always ready with a smile, a joke, or a fascinating fact about the ocean.
When he’s not leading unforgettable dives, you’ll find Dede soaking up the sun, strumming his guitar, or sharing stories with guests over a fresh coconut.
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Superpower: Making every dive feel like a party
Weakness: Can’t resist a good reggae beat
Yanton
Yanton is a long-time dive guide, he started scuba diving when he was 15 years old in 1998, being the oldest diver in Manado's community, North Sulawesi (NDC). In his 25 year career as a dive guide he's worked around Indonesia, at both dive centre resorts and liveaboards.
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He smiles at you most all the time, is very energetic, and will always ensure your dive is enjoyable.
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Superpower: A musical duracell bunny
Weakness: Infectious laughing
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Erwin
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Erwin is a dive guide hailing from the beautiful region of Manado. Known for his professionalism and calm demeanor, Erwin consistently makes our customers happy with his excellent guidance and underwater expertise. When he's not leading dives, he helps with servicing equipment, ensuring everything is in top-notch condition.
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Erwin has a special fondness for macro creatures, and his keen eye for spotting these tiny wonders adds a unique touch to every dive.
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Superpower: Making customers happy, spotting the tiniest macro creatures
Weakness: Can get lost in admiration of macro life
Medi
Medi, our powerhouse from Manado, has transitioned from compressor operator to dive guide, bringing the same precision and dedication to his new role. Whether he's leading divers through Raja Ampat’s underwater wonderland or fine-tuning regulators and BCDs, Medi ensures everything runs flawlessly.
His attention to detail and problem-solving skills make him the go-to guy for keeping our dive gear in top shape. And don’t worry—he hasn’t lost his legendary strength. Carrying tanks all day has only made him stronger, so if he ever offers you a handshake… brace yourself!
Superpower: Master of Fixing – If it’s broken, Medi will make it work!
Weakness: Still growing out of his shirts… Hulk mode activated!
Ray
Ray, born and raised in Yenbuba village on Mansuar Island, is a valued member of our team at Soul Scuba Divers. He started as boat crew on the Anna and quickly became known for his ever-present smile and helpful nature. Whether he’s handing you water or switching out your tanks after a dive, Ray’s positive energy is always there to brighten your day on the boat.
This year, Ray earned his divemaster certification with us and is now training as a dive guide! His knowledge of the local waters and warm personality make him a natural fit for guiding, and he’s well on his way to becoming an exceptional dive leader.
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Superpower: Mister Smiley – Ray’s smile can turn any day around!
Weakness: Despite his excellent English, he’s a bit on the shy side. But give him a dive mask, and his confidence shines through!
captain
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ANCA
Originally from Ambon in Maluku, Anca has made Raja Ampat his home for many years. A cornerstone of the Soul Scuba team, Anca is a skilled captain and a multi-talented team member who started as one of our very first dive guides. His deep knowledge of Raja Ampat—both above and below the surface—comes from years of experience and dedication to the region’s beauty and conservation.
Anca is known for his willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need, whether it’s helping a guest or supporting his teammates. With a calm demeanor and a wealth of expertise, Anca is both a trusted captain and a friend to all who know him.
Superpower: One of the kindest hearts you’ll ever meet.
Weakness: He can’t resist helping everyone, even when he’s already juggling a dozen tasks.
Malik
Malik is the newest addition to the Soul Scuba Divers team, hailing from the beautiful region of Papua. As our skilled captain, Malik brings years of experience navigating speed boats in Sorong, ensuring our divers reach their destinations safely and swiftly. His super motivated attitude and willingness to assist wherever needed make him a valuable team member.
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Though Malik is a bit shy, this only adds to his charm and endears him to both staff and divers alike.
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Superpower: Smile
Weakness: Shyness occasionally causes him to hide behind the wheel
Frangky
Frangky, originally from Biak Island, is our seasoned captain at Soul Scuba Divers. With years of experience navigating the waters of Raja Ampat, he knows these seas like the back of his hand. Frangky’s deep knowledge of local conditions and routes ensures every dive trip is smooth, safe, and enjoyable for our guests. His calm demeanor and expert skills at the helm make him an invaluable part of our team and a reassuring presence on every journey.
Superpower: Sea Sense – Frangky seems to know the ocean’s every mood and can spot a dolphin from miles away!
Weakness: Rarely gets a chance to show off his storytelling skills—he’s usually busy keeping us on the course!
boat crew
Sofian
Sofian, from Biak Island in Papua, is a warm yet quiet presence on our dive team. As part of the boat crew, he’s always there with a smile, ready to lend a hand and make sure your tanks are switched smoothly between dives. Sofian’s calm, attentive nature helps set a relaxed atmosphere on board, allowing guests to enjoy every dive with ease.
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Superpower: The Quiet Helper – Sofian’s smile and readiness to help say more than words!
Weakness: Prefers letting his actions speak for him, so you’ll rarely catch him chatting on the boat!
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KILA
Kila from Yenbuba village, is one of our hardworking boat crew members at Soul Scuba Divers. Known for his dedication and energy, he’s always there to assist divers and keep the boat in top shape. Kila’s hands-on approach makes him a key part of the team—especially when his fingers are free from those occasional scrapes and bumps that come with the job!
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Superpower: Tireless worker – there’s no task too big for Kila!
Weakness: Minor finger wounds that try to slow him down, but never for long!
kitchen
Thina & NOVI
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Thina, from Yenbuba village, is not just our kitchen staff—she’s the heart of our snack game at Soul Scuba Divers. As Novi’s mom, she brings warmth and care to everything she does, whether she’s preparing delicious treats for our guests or making sure the team stays fueled for another day of diving.
When she’s not whipping up tasty snacks, you’ll find her in our little garden, growing fresh vegetables and fruits with Novi. Just be warned—if there’s a banana on Kri Island, Thina has probably already fried it into something irresistibly good!
Superpower: Super Mama – Keeping everyone happy and well-fed
Weakness: Turning every banana into a snack (seriously, where did they all go?)
JULIANA
Juliana is the heart and soul of the kitchen at Soul Scuba Divers. Always smiling and eager to help, Juliana whips up delightful snacks that keep our divers fueled and happy. Her culinary skills and cheerful demeanour make the kitchen a warm and welcoming place for everyone.
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When she's not busy creating tasty treats, Juliana enjoys chatting with staff and spreading positivity.
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Superpower: Chief creator of delicious snacks
Weakness: Occasionally takes jokes a little too seriously
LANDTEAM
CASPER - COMPRESSOR OPERATOR
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Casper is one of our hardest-working team members at Soul Scuba Divers. Born and raised in Papua, he’s the silent force behind every dive, making sure tanks are filled and ready to go. Need a full tank? Blink, and Casper’s already got it sorted.
His daily workout consists of carrying, lifting, and stacking dive tanks—no gym needed. If muscles were built on hard work alone, Casper would be the strongest man in Raja Ampat. We try to tell him to take a break, but he just keeps going!
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Superpower: Gaining muscles just by moving tanks
Weakness: Taking a day off (seriously, someone make him rest!)