Meet your Instructors:
Aqua Native values Inclusion, Safety, Joy, and Environmental Stewardship.
Ani Ferguson PADI MERMAID & FREEDIVE INSTRUCTOR TRAINER, MASTER SCUBA DIVER TRAINER An "Aqua Native" in the truest sense, Ani’s relationship with the water began at just eight weeks old. Growing up in a family of divers, the water was her second home, but her lifelong calling was sparked at age four during a trip to Weeki Wachee Springs. There, after a mesmerizing underwater show, Mermaid Marti hand-picked Ani and her sister from the crowd for a photo—a moment that turned a childhood wonder into a lifelong pursuit. Ani’s path has been defined by a blend of technical mastery and creative innovation. She earned her SCUBA certification in 1990 at the age of 10 and spent her early years as a competitive swimmer and lifeguard. After completing her undergraduate degree in 2004, she merged her background in Studio Art and Art Education with her love for the ocean, designing her first custom mermaid tail. Since then, Ani has evolved into one of the industry's most versatile leaders. Her professional credentials include:
Based in the high deserts of Utah, Ani is dedicated to proving that the magic of the water belongs to everyone. Since 2003, she has used her expertise as a professional educator to create an accessible, high-quality learning environment. Whether you are aspiring to be a mermaid, a freediver, or a scuba diver, Ani’s mission is to help you find your place beneath the surface. Certifications and Credentials:
Specialty Certifications:
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Ashley Miller PADI MERMAID INSTRUCTOR Ashley instructs Mermaid Courses with Aqua Native! A passionate underwater performer and champion athlete, her journey beneath the surface is defined by both competitive excellence and a deep love for the art of mermaiding. With over five years of professional mermaid experience, she has captivated audiences, advanced her craft, and reached the pinnacle of competitive performance—highlighted by taking home the Gold Medal at the 2025 Mermaid Championships. In addition to her work in the water, she is a leader within the aquatic community. As an administrator for Court of Mermaids, she helps foster an engaging, inclusive space for fellow performers and water enthusiasts. Her dedication to performance is matched by a strong foundation in technical diving. She has continuously expanded her skill set, combining artistic expression with rigorous dive safety and breath-hold fundamentals. Whether performing underwater or sharing her passion with others, her mission is to inspire joy, confidence, and a lasting connection to the water. Certifications and Credentials:
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Shelby Peterson Freedive Instructor Certifications and Credentials:
Shelby was introduced to freshwater spearfishing by her husband, Ryan. She fell in love with sports and loved being able to compete with her husband. She hopes to continue to make her mark as a woman diver and has set 12 world records in spearfishing so far! |
Ryan Peterson Freedive Instructor Certifications and Credentials:
Ryan is a seasoned instructor who also serves as president for the Utah Spearfishing & Freediving Association and the DWR to create more access and opportunity for our state. |
