Topher McConkey

When I was 12 I went diving, for the first time in my life, off of the coast Bali with my brother.

The water was so blue and as clear as day. The coral reef in the area was the most breathtaking scenery I had ever witnessed. Then and there I knew I was witnessing one of the few perfect memories of my life.

After about fifteen to twenty minutes in the water, my brother and I were about ready to get out. Our fingers were pruning, the ever-increasing amount of water in our goggles was starting to annoy us, and our muscles were getting tired. It was time to head back.

As soon as we made the decision, we turned back to start swimming toward the boat. Right before we reached the edge of the coral reef, one of the rarest shark species in the world made its presence known to us. The Oceanic White Tip. My brother and I sat there for thirty minutes in sheer awe as it circled us. There was no fear shared between my brother, myself, and the shark, just appreciation.

When we got back to the boat, I immediately researched the species. I learned that it was critically endangered, and the shark was thousands upon thousands of miles from the common living waters of its species. Travesties are caused by the excessive shark finning of its species in its main ocean waters.

My life would forever be changed after this day. Because of this one encounter, I have a tattoo on my body to remember that shark forever, and I helped run a non-profit for 3 years that fought foreign governments on issues such as overfishing and shark finning.

If there was ever such thing as a clear "sign of purpose” in life, I know that was it for me at such a young age.