Jill is a true pioneering superwoman in the underwater world, combining daring exploration with a lifelong commitment to ocean conservation. Over a career spanning more than 30 years and 8,000 dives, this Canadian cave diver, explorer, writer, and filmmaker has pushed the boundaries of human exploration, venturing into submerged caves and extreme underwater environments that few would ever enter. From navigating the iceberg caves of Antarctica to mapping the world’s longest underwater cave systems in Mexico, Jill’s expeditions have redefined what’s possible in technical diving. Her fearless achievements have cemented her legacy as a trailblazer and a powerful advocate for environmental protection, inspiring countless others to explore, protect, and appreciate the wonders of the underwater world. Not to mention, when others have said no, Jill is always saying yes, even in the face of adversity, discrimination or personal setbacks.
Jill’s achievements are vast, and her accolades reflect the significance of her work. She was honored as the first Explorer in Residence by the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and is a recipient of Canada’s prestigious Polar Medal. In recognition of her lifetime contributions to exploration, Jill has received both the Sir Christopher Ondaatje Medal for Exploration and the William Beebe Award from the Explorers Club. She is also a Fellow of the International Scuba Divers Hall of Fame, an acknowledgment of her groundbreaking contributions to the sport and science of diving.
As a filmmaker and author, Jill has a unique talent for capturing and conveying the awe-inspiring beauty of underwater ecosystems while advocating for their preservation. Her documentaries, including We Are Water and Water’s Journey, explore humanity’s connection to water and the urgent need for conservation. In her bestselling memoir, Into the Planet: My Life as a Cave Diver, Jill shares her extraordinary experiences and the dangers of navigating uncharted underwater caves, offering readers an intimate look into the life of an explorer whose office is the depths of the earth’s “veins.”
Currently, Jill is working closer to home on an important conservation project focused on freshwater mussels in Ottawa’s rivers. These often-overlooked creatures are critical to aquatic ecosystems, acting as natural filters that improve water quality for countless other species. Jill’s dedication to understanding and protecting these vital freshwater habitats is an extension of her passion for environmental stewardship, which has fueled her global expeditions and work. But also has made her realize there’s a lot to uncover right at home, making this one of her favorite cave explorations yet. When not on expeditions at home and abroad, she’s also touring her latest film globally called, Diving Into the Darkness: Never Cave into Fear, which is set for streaming in 2025. Her endless pursuit of discovery and deep commitment to conservation continue to especially inspire new generations of female explorers and environmental advocates worldwide.
