Help me get back on track, after escaping war torn Sudan.

️Rebuild with Purpose: Help me Restart After War

Hi, I’m Henri Hemmerechts, a Belgian professional diver, marine conservationist, and co-founder of the International Association of Dive Professionals (IADP). For over 30 years, I’ve dedicated my life to restoring coral reefs, training professionals, and protecting our oceans—from the Red Sea to the Carribbean.

But in 2023, everything changed.

From Restoration to Ruin

After volunteering as Director of Marine Operations for Red Sea University in Sudan—restoring diving operations and training marine park rangers—my mission was cut short by war.

On April 15th, 2023, just five minutes before boarding a flight out of Khartoum Airport, rebel forces launched a surprise attack. Chaos erupted.

A survival story began.

I was eventually evacuated two weeks later with nothing but a small backpack. I lost all my diving gear, personal belongings, and project infrastructure—over €30,000 in total.

This story has since been covered in various news reports; a simple search of my name reveals the events that unfolded.

Starting Over in Belgium

I’ve now returned to Belgium to restart my life and re-establish my professional base. I am working full-time—unpaid—for the nonprofit I helped build (IADP), rebuilding digital systems, reestablishing partnerships, and developing new marine environmental programs.

But I need your help to stabilize and continue this work.

How Your Support Helps

Your donation will help cover:

“People protect what they love.” — Jacques-Yves Cousteau

I’m committed to that vision. With your support, I can get back on my feet—and back to the work that matters.

Donor Reward – Get Exclusive Access

Donations of €100 or more will grant you access to members-only content at Ocean Roamers.

There, I share project updates, field work insights, and occasional personal reflections—exclusive to supporters.

Not Just Surviving—Continuing the Mission

This fundraiser supports me personally. If you'd prefer to support the IADP’s environmental and educational mission, please visit:

https://dive-professionals.org/get-involved

Whether you donate or simply share this story, you're helping me rebuild a life of purpose—and continue protecting the oceans that connect us all.

Thank you for standing by me.

— Henri (@TheOceanRoamer)