Cristina Zenato has spent nearly three decades beneath the waves, rewriting the narrative of sharks and their misunderstood role in the ocean. Known as the “Mother of Sharks,” she combines courage, curiosity, and compassion in her work with sharks and cave exploration. Her story is one of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering love for the underwater world.
The Unexpected Connection
Cristina’s fascination with the ocean began in childhood. Born into a family deeply connected to the sea, she grew up hearing tales of her father’s underwater adventures as a diver in the Italian special forces. However, she only donned scuba gear for the first time at 22, during a transformative trip to the Bahamas. The crystalline waters of the islands became her home, both above and below the surface.
In 1996, Cristina encountered a shark with a fishing hook embedded in its mouth. Acting on instinct and a deep respect for the creature, she removed the hook. This moment marked the beginning of a profound relationship. Over the years, more sharks approached her with similar injuries, seeking her aid. Since then, she has removed nearly 300 hooks, fostering trust and transforming fear into a mutual bond.
Reframing Fear: A Bold Perspective
Cristina believes society’s fear of sharks stems from misunderstanding. She challenges the stereotype of sharks as predators waiting to attack. Instead, she highlights their sentience and individuality. Each shark, she says, has a distinct personality, and their reactions reflect trust or caution depending on their experiences.
She wears protective gear not out of fear but as a precaution, comparing it to a beekeeper’s suit. By consistently interacting with sharks, Cristina has built trust over time. Some even nuzzle close, a behaviour she interprets as mutual respect rather than aggression. Her work demonstrates that treating animals with dignity can shift perceptions and foster coexistence.
The Bahamas: A Conservation Haven
Cristina’s connection to the Bahamas runs deep. She describes the islands as a mix of paradise and challenge, with pristine waters, vibrant ecosystems, and a raw natural beauty. However, the same waters faced significant threats from overfishing and shark finning. Recognising the urgency, Cristina initiated efforts to protect sharks across the region.
In 2011, the Bahamas enacted legislation to protect sharks entirely, a moment Cristina recalls with pride. Her advocacy work united locals, conservation groups, and international organisations, ensuring the preservation of the region’s marine biodiversity. Today, the Bahamas remains one of the few places where sharks are entirely protected.
Exploring Earth’s Hidden Realms
Beyond her work with sharks, Cristina is an avid cave diver. She describes the caves as timeless archives of Earth’s history, their formations whispering secrets of the planet’s geological past. In 2012, she connected a land-based cave to an underwater blue hole, a feat many considered impossible. Her explorations have uncovered over 15 miles of previously unknown passageways.
Cave diving, Cristina explains, is about patience and observation. The gentle sound of unwinding reels and the sweeping light of a torch guide divers through these ancient corridors. For Cristina, caves are both a source of mystery and a reminder of life’s interconnectedness.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Life in the Bahamas has not been without its challenges. In 2019, Hurricane Dorian devastated the island of Grand Bahama, and shortly after, the pandemic brought further disruption. Despite these hardships, Cristina’s resilience kept her anchored. She relied on careful planning, adaptability, and an unwavering belief in small, consistent actions to rebuild her life and work.
Her philosophy is clear: preparation is essential, whether for storms or the uncertainties of life. She approaches challenges with a blend of practicality and hope, ensuring her passion for conservation and exploration remains at the forefront.
Inspiring Future Generations
Through her non-profit organisation, People of the Water, Cristina focuses on exploration, education, and conservation. She trains Bahamians and international students in diving and marine ecology, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the underwater world. Over the years, she has provided free training to over 100 Bahamians, fostering a new generation of ocean advocates.
Cristina’s vision extends beyond her lifetime. She hopes her efforts will create a ripple effect, inspiring others to protect the planet’s oceans and the life they sustain.
