We do not need magic to transform our world
We carry all of the power we need inside ourselves already

– J. K  Rowling

About Metsulot

Metsulot was founded on the principle that experiencing diving firsthand offers a transformative glimpse into the subaquatic world, potentially altering one’s perspective on terrestrial life. This shift in awareness opens up new possibilities, revealing vast, unexplored territories within the diving community that are currently beyond the reach of most people.

Metsulot stands out as an innovative initiative in both Israeli and global diving communities. Its mission is to leverage scuba diving as a tool for personal development, targeting youth, at-risk individuals, and those with special needs. The program aims to cultivate essential life skills such as leadership, resilience, effective communication, and goal-setting. By immersing participants in the underwater world, Metsulot not only enhances their ability to overcome life’s obstacles and achieve personal objectives but also fosters a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems. This unique approach serves a dual purpose: empowering individuals while simultaneously promoting environmental awareness and instigating positive societal change in Israel.

Metsulot's story

Metsulot was established in 2020 by Boaz Giladi, an educator and diving instructor who assembled a team of like-minded diving instructors and educators. They share a common belief in diving’s

transformative potential. Giladi reflects, “My experience as a diving instructor revealed that standard training programs, while skill-focused, often lack depth in educational content. I’ve witnessed countless times how encountering the underwater world sparks awe, wonder, and personal empowerment. However, these profound feelings typically faded after the brief training period, with many divers failing to integrate sea exploration into their regular lives.”

This disconnect was particularly pronounced among teenagers, partly due to the high costs associated with diving. Metsulot aims to bridge this gap, making the life-altering benefits of diving accessible to young people. The organization strives to introduce youth to the unique strengths and capabilities that the world of diving can unlock, fostering long-term personal growth and connection with the marine environment.

 

We are altering teenagers’ perspective on the environment by transforming the environment they are in

The marine environment has a profound ability to reshape individual outlooks and collective social attitudes.

The underwater realm offers a unique, unbiased space where individuals and groups in conflict can interact

Scuba diving serves as a unique medium, fostering connections not only among individuals but also between humans and the awe-inspiring natural world beneath the waves.

Mastery of diving requires rigorous training, encompassing both advanced equipment proficiency and the cultivation of strong leadership abilities

Diving education should instill a deep understanding of marine ecosystems, coupled with a steadfast dedication to their conservation

Oceans and their ecosystems represent a vital national asset, deserving widespread acknowledgment and safeguarding

Our Mission

To empower adolescents and at-risk youth to realize their potential and achieve success according to their goals, by acquiring unique tools and skills from the realm of diving.

Our vision

To be the leading organization in Israel in the field of educational diving, empowering at-risk youth and adolescents by providing them with the means to develop their abilities and fulfill their aspirations.

Our team

Sea lovers and educators have joined forces to share the magical underwater world with others.

Shlomi Plintsky

arried father of 3, Has a bachelor's degree in logistics and economics from Bar-Ilan University and a master's degree in administration and national security at Haifa University. Since 1990, Shlomi has been deeply involved in diving, specializing in technical and closed diving systems instruction. Leading Israel's diving field for the Israeli Diving Association, he also serves as a professional advisor and mentor at the Metsulot association.

Yam Barak

Yam comes from a family deeply rooted in diving and a love for the sea as reflecting her name (Yam = Sea). The ocean and diving represent a tranquil, comforting, and secure haven, central to both her life and her family's. For Yam, the ultimate fulfillment in diving instruction lies in guiding individuals from discomfort to a sense of belonging underwater. Her aspiration is to share her passion for the sea, imparting respect, and appreciation for its boundless offerings to others.

Daniel Zigdon

Married and father of a daughter. Holds a bachelor's degree in physical education from Wingate College. With 12 years of experience as a diving instructor and in diving club management, he also serves as a board member of the Israeli Diving Association. Daniel has held management positions in extreme medical simulations, collaborating extensively with security and medical organizations. Currently, he conducts research on medical simulations in the diving industry.

Ido Kaufman

Married and father of two, served in the navy as commander of the underwater missions unit, reaching the rank of lieutenant colonel. Ido holds degrees in business administration and political science. His marine training includes saturation diving, trimix, closed system diving, and sailing instruction. He's dedicated to enhancing Israeli society, contributing through management, teaching, and volunteering in educational associations.

Omri Radei

An outstanding psychology Bachelor's degree student at the Open University. With over a decade of experience in education and training, he has been a diving instructor since 2016, affiliated with both the PADI organization and the Israeli Diving Association. Omri's interests span from extreme sports and parkour to bouldering. He firmly believes in the transformative power of challenge and exposure in shaping the human soul.

Or Yehoshua Heine

Married and father of 2, has been a professional diver since 2002 and currently holds the rank of Instructor's Instructor. Or is a technical diving instructor, a closed systems instructor, and a certified cave diver. He serves as the director of the Israeli branch of the IANTD association. Or oversees the activity center of Metsulot in Eilat.

Boaz Giladi

Dedicated husband and father of 4, Holds a bachelor's degree in Land of Israel studies and archaeology from Bar-Ilan University, and a master's degree in educational leadership from Tel Aviv University. With over 20 years in education, he's served in diverse management roles. Boaz is a senior diving instructor in the IANTD organization, certified as a closed systems diver and cave diver. As the association's founder, he currently serves as its voluntary CEO