Mia DaPonte Is America's Youngest Female Master Scuba Diver

Marcela Bonet
Mon, 12 May 2025 08:14:06 -0700

Most 12-year-olds dream of a big party or a fun sleepover to celebrate their birthday. But Mia DaPonte, from East Greenwich, Rhode Island, had a different goal in mind. She wanted to celebrate by becoming New England’s first 12-year-old — and the youngest female in the US — to earn the title of PADI Master Scuba Diver. This is the highest recreational diving certification offered by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors.