Family Biography

Native Sons was set up in 1993 by Alvin Jackson, a native islander and is the realization of a life-long dream. He started scuba diving in 1973, after growing up free diving to help feed his family. Alvin worked for many years as an instructor and assistant manager at the world renowned Anthony’s Key Resort. He also designed and managed the dive facility at Bay Island Beach Resort.

Alvin knows the importance of good service and safety in the tourist and dive industry. He is a local diving legend and few others have his knowledge of the reef around the island. He designed and constructed both of the boats used by Native Sons and is working on a larger, more comfortable vessel, capable of running regular day trips to more remote islands and unspoilt reefs. Alvin is the President of the Roatan Marine Park and very dedicated to preserving the environment.

Michele Akel, known to many as Mish, came to Roatan in 1996 on holiday and did her Open Water Course with Alvin. As she lay on the bow of the boat, Mish dreamed of staying on Roatan forever, hoping Alvin would be part of her dream. She did and he has! After completing her divemaster course she started working for Native Sons and became an instructor in 1997. She and Alvin now run the dive shop and Hotel Chillies together. Mish goes out diving at least once a week to take underwater photos and is fascinated by the beauty and diversity of the reef and the creatures that live there.

Alvin & Mish have 2 children, Teo, 8 yrs and Maia, 6 yrs. With both parents being experienced dive instructors, Teo is already a very keen diver, although he is a little too young to get certified. Maia is only 6 and will have to wait a few more years before she can scuba. But, she is already free diving to get a closer look at the fish.