- Mermaid name: Siren Sebel
- Land name: Diane Diaz
- Sea of origin: Philippines
- Using a mermaid tail: since 2018
Siren sebel descendant of Dyesebel, is a fascinating creature of the Philippine Islands.
These wonderful islands constitute one of the most beautiful archipelagos in Southeast Asia. Bounded by the South China Sea on the west, the Philippine Sea on the east and the Celebes Sea on the southwest, the Philippines are a paradise for scuba diving and any aquatic activity, and in it is a great habitat for mermaids.
This intelligent and hardworking mermaid combines her hobby with a job as a junior architect in an architecture studio. While she finishes her studies she is also teaching Yoga. Incredible, isn’t it?
With all this activity, she still has time to devote to her hobby, together with her partner who helps her with the photos; do you want to meet her?
Lets start by the beginning how did you get into the water… Apart from mermaiding, how do you fill your day?
I’ve always been attracted to the mystery and beauty of the underwater world. I guess one of the first triggers of this fascination was after watching the Little Mermaid as is the case with many mermaids these days. Ironically though, I would be afraid to venture to deep waters where I can’t see what lies beneath. This brought me to scuba diving classes and some intro to freediving classes. Thru those I am now able to let go of my fears as I have seen beneath the depths.
Apart from mermaiding, I have a day job at an architecture firm as a junior architect. I am also currently studying for my professional licensure exam happening in January and teaching yoga classes on the side.
Why do you love mermaids so much? What impact has Dyesebel in your passion?
I love mermaids so much because it comes with a sense of wonder and awe. Kids, and even adults, who see me, are almost always excited and amazed. Anything that can bring a smile to someone’s face is really fulfilling for me.
Dyesebel, a character by Mars Ravelo, is a classic and popular Filipino mermaid character in my country. If you come here and you say “serena”/mermaid, immediately most people here think Dyesebel. I wanted my chosen name to pay homage to my country and so I chose Sebel as sort of a spin off.
How is the mermaid community in your origin sea?
There are a handful of mermaids over here but not as many as, say, USA. It’s not as popular as a profession but there are some professional mermaids here. We do have a small community and I have some friends that I get to regularly share this hobby with. It’s a big hit with kids and adults alike who enjoy immersing themselves in their imagination. I think mermaiding can make someone’s day brighter and becoming advocates for the sea and the environment contributes a lot to our country which is composed of many islands.
How do you live the mermaiding experience? Do you share it with family or friends?
I mostly mermaid as a hobby, but I have appeared publicly during a bazaar in a mall. It was a truly amazing experience. I wish to someday meet mermaids from different countries!
My partner supports my mermaiding and he loves to come with me to swim or take pictures. My brothers and sisters have helped me with many of my photos by being my photographers! Also, my parents are quite supportive even if they sometimes think it’s silly. It’s really great to have people who enjoy seeing you do things that you love. My other passion is yoga! I actually took a teacher training course early this year and have been teaching since.
Do you support any ocean conservation efforts?
I am not actively affiliated with any organization but I do like to share ocean conservation facts to my peers. I am also actively learning about new information every day and plan to attend conservation camps and the like once my schedule frees up after my exams.
Siren Sebel Which is your favorite item or clothing?
My absolute favorite mermaid items are basically my Finfolk tails and my shell bra that I made myself. I also love wearing their leggings!
What advice would you give to other aspiring mermaids who are still unsure?
I would say, just take the plunge. You can start by taking an intro mermaiding class (like I did) or you can find a friend who has a tail and ask if you could test it out (please be sure that you keep safety in mind though!) and see if it makes you happy! If it does, you could start saving up for a tail which is suitable to your swimming level and your liking. Some people even make their own tails if they are on a budget. If there’s a will, there’s a way.