The National Association of Black Scuba Divers (NABS) was established in 1991 by Ric Powell and Dr A. Jose Jones. They were two of the earliest African-Americans to become certified divers, together creating NABS which purpose was to foster camaraderie among African American divers, and to address the unique problems and concerns of the community.
In 2017, NABS became a registered 501 c 3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing training and support to youth that maybe economically unable to train and certify as a new generation of divers. We recognize the need to establish an educational scholarship component of scuba to assist with youth that desire education and a career in Marine Science, Plant Biology, or Plant Zoology as it pertains to life beneath the seas.
Since the formation of NABS, the organization has blossomed to over 2,000 members across the country and internationally.
NABS mission is to create a network of people and resources that provide educational experiences that enhance and promote an appreciation of diving and an awareness of the aquatic environment. This network will build unity and camaraderie to transfer the legacy to future generations.