Origin
The word 'Nixie' has its roots in ancient folklore, where it was used to describe water nymphs—mysterious, captivating beings who roamed the waterways in Norse traditions. Known for their free-spirited nature, Nixies were said to charm & inspire those who ventured near their waters.
When naming the business 'Nixi,' we wanted to capture that same essence—the connection to water, and the joy of exploring its depths. At Nixi, our mission is to inspire adventure and self-discovery through the transformative power of water. We’re dedicated to building confidence by helping you develop new skills, from mermaiding and diving to exploring aquatic fitness and breathwork. We believe in the strength that comes with pushing boundaries, whether it’s in the water or in life. Our focus on water safety, wellness, and the deep connection to nature encourages exploration, helping you appreciate the world around you while fostering inner strength within.
MEET THE OWNER...
My name is Ischa
I grew up in the mountains of WNC with the water being my favorite playground... And now, my office. I have been professionally guiding and teaching water based activities for 10+ years. What started with the rivers, lakes and wetlands of the Carolinas, moved on to a career of traveling to some of the most prestigious dive & sailing destinations worldwide.
My love of exploring and learning about the environment inspired me to create a space for others to do the same…
Nixi is a culmination of the knowledge and passion I’ve gained through my time on, in, and under the water.
Let's dive in!
QUALIFICATIONS
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PADI Master Scuba Dive Trainer
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U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain
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Emergency First Response Instructor
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AWARE Coral, Shark & Ray, and Marine Mammal Conservation Specialist
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Deep, Wreck, Drift, Night, NITROX, Photography & Other Specialty Instructor
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Wilderness First Responder
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AAUS Research Diver
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Adaptive Diver Instructor
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PADI Mermaid Instructor
I take an adventurous approach to both life and teaching. Through providing elevated dive & swim training as well as immersive experiences, I want to share that the water is accessible and able to be enjoyed and explored by EVERYONE. No matter your age, health, state of mind; there is a way for you to feel the freedom of weightlessness that water allows.
By choosing to train, travel, & experience the water with us, you will be choosing to push your own boundaries and learn new aspects of yourself; Walking away with not only an amazing experience, but a newfound sense of self confidence & trust in your capabilities to navigate our watery world.
Our goal is to share the special ecosystems that lay below the surface & help others foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness within the natural environment we are surrounded by. Water is a resource that deserves to be respected & protected - Cultivating a relationship with it inspires people to do so.
That being said, if you are just looking to relax and float the day away on a boat - we will do just that.
I believe that water provides the ultimate lesson in life: Fluidity.
TEAM NIXI
Professional Water Women.
Loie
Professional Mermaid
& Divemaster Intern
A Western North Carolina native, Loie grew up exploring the rivers and lakes of Brevard, always drawn to what lies beneath the surface. Her lifelong love for the water, paired with a deep respect for nature, has shaped her journey into the world of professional mermaiding, freediving, and inwater instruction. She is now a PADI professional mermaid instructor, talented in both the art and athleticism of underwater movement.
With experience as a camp counselor, river guide, and Leave No Trace instructor, Loie has spent years helping others connect with the outdoors. Now, she takes that passion underwater, guiding students through the graceful and empowering art of mermaiding. As a PADI Mermaid Instructor and Divemaster intern, she blends technical skill with artistic expression, making her an exceptional educator for those looking to explore the magic of weightless movement.
Performing as The Blue Ridge Mountain Mermaid, Loie embodies the spirit of the Appalachian waters—born from the magic of Pisgah and dedicated to protecting the freshwater ecosystems she calls home. Her background in dance enhances her ability to move effortlessly underwater, making her not only a skilled instructor but also a captivating underwater model.
Through Nixi Aquatics, Loie teaches mermaiding in breathtaking freshwater locations throughout the Southeast, helping others build confidence, connect with nature, and experience the mind-body harmony that comes with moving through the water like a mermaid. Whether you’re new to mermaiding or looking to refine your technique, Loie brings expertise, passion, and a touch of magic to every lesson.
PADI MERMAID
ADVANCED OPEN WATER DIVER
EFR
Tefa
Professional Mermaid
& Environmental Educator
Tefa Hallock was raised swimming in waters from Appalachia to Key West. She fell in love with rivers at a young age and has been an avid diver and paddler her entire life. Tefa has claimed responsibility for protecting natural waterways as her life’s mission and uses freediving and mermaiding as tools for both exploration and conservation.
Tefa’s academic background includes fresh water ecology, environmental policy, and urban growth management. She has implemented green building practices widely over the last twenty years and now brings that knowledge forward specifically to protect natural waterways and fresh water aquifers.
Tefa is VP of Ichetucknee Alliance, a nonprofit organization focused on the environmental restoration of Florida’s most pristine river, the Ichetucknee. She also owns and operates WaterHeart, a watershed training academy designed for the next generation of water stewards.
As a form of activism, Tefa created a mermaid character named Lady Waterways in order to educate about what’s happening to the natural systems responsible for making pure water. She is especially interested in rekindling a sacred view of water within the cultural experience of what it means to be human. It is through creative storytelling that she’s able to reach a broader audience and inform more people about the role aquatic habitats play in determining species diversity and the abundance of life prospering here on Earth.
PADI MERMAID INSTRUCTOR
PADI ADVANCED MERMAID
PADI FREEDIVER LEVEL 1
EFR
MA in Culture, Ecology, Sustainable Community
MBA in Environmental Entrepreneurship
BA in Environmental Policy and Urban Growth Management
