Meet Mercy Ho, ASI SUP Instructor, Singapore

1. What is your background?

I have been serving in the charity space for the last 14 years working among the poor, homeless, and marginalized. I am also a Certified Resilience Coach and NCSF Certified Trainer, alongside being an ASI Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) Instructor. I currently reside and teach in Singapore.

2. What got you involved in stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)?

In 2023, I met my SUP instructor, Tony, whose passion for the sport truly inspired me to pursue stand-up paddleboarding as a regular activity.

I loved being out on the water with my board and paddle so much that I soon began taking part in local SUP races.

It was also wonderful to meet new individuals and make friends through the different SUP communities in Singapore who share the same passion for the sport.

3. Why did you become an ASI instructor?

Over time, I kept improving my paddling and posture techniques under my SUP instructor Tony and realized that having proper technique and posture is essential for long-term enjoyment and injury prevention. Many of my friends and people around me were excited to try stand-up paddling or learn the right techniques.

I love journeying with people through new experiences, so I decided to get trained and become a certified Level 1 Stand-Up Paddling Instructor with the Academy of Surfing Instructors (ASI).

With my certification, I began teaching and training friends, individuals, and young people in SUP.

Some of those I teach may not be able to afford the sport, so I find sponsors for their first lesson to ensure they don't miss out just because they come from a financially tight background.

Over time, I began teaching older students, and I am glad proper SUP techniques can be taught to them to prevent unnecessary injuries or body aches.

4. What are you doing now as an ASI SUP Instructor?

These days, I teach SUP Introductory Courses and ASI SUP Wise Level 1 Lessons at Constant Wind Seasports in Singapore.

I often lead 1-on-1 paddling sessions or small-group paddling sessions with young people and individuals who have very stressful daily routines and need time away to rest and relax on the water.

When time permits, I also run regular resilience workshops and seaside retreats with the friends I stand-up paddle with.

5. What do you like most about being a SUP instructor?

I love seeing a heart come alive when someone tries the sport for the first time, when they come onto the water to enjoy paddleboarding, or when they desire to learn the right techniques and postures with a great attitude.

Training young people of all ages, backgrounds, and nationalities—and seeing them have fun, learn proper technique, and grow to love a brand-new sport—brings so much meaning to my life.

At the same time, paddling with individuals who need a getaway from the hustle of life, and seeing them leave refreshed, healthier, and more relaxed after a session, makes my heart full.

There is so much joy, life, and meaning in imparting SUP skills and bringing people together out on the water.

6. Can you share an inspiring story about an ASI student?

I had a young man who was just 17 years old trying out stand-up paddling for the first time. I became his instructor until he eventually earned his ASI SUP Wise Level 1 Certification.

One day, we decided to paddle out together for an 11 km journey through strong winds and tough currents, and I watched him give his absolute all.

I am 45 years old, and there I was with this young, energetic man more than 25 years my junior. He was so filled with determination, excitement for life, and zest for the sport that I felt deeply inspired by his great attitude and heart posture.

Over the years, I've met a few young hearts who carry this same energy, and it is a real privilege to be among them and serve as their SUP instructor.

Being an instructor teaches us that we often learn just as much from our students about life and resilience.

About ASI
ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding.  Established in 2003, with our head office in Bondi Beach, Sydney Australia, ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, international career opportunities and adventure.