Sarah Saatchian: A Trailblazer in the Skies

From Auckland Skies to Global Heights: The Journey of a Skydiving Pioneer

Sarah Saatchian’s journey into skydiving began in the picturesque cityscape of Auckland, New Zealand. After a thrilling bungee jump from the Sky Tower, Sarah’s fascination with the sky was ignited. This inaugural leap led her to explore the exhilarating world of skydiving, marking the start of an incredible adventure.

The Early Days: Passion and Challenges

Sarah’s passion for skydiving was immediate and intense. Every jump filled her with a profound sense of exhilaration and wonder. However, the path was not without obstacles. Sarah faced numerous challenges, from the technical complexities of the sport to overcoming initial familial resistance. Yet, her determination and love for flight propelled her forward. In 2010, Sarah took her first tandem jump in Dubai, mesmerized by the graceful maneuvers of the tandem camera flyer. This experience solidified her commitment, and by late 2013, she earned her skydiving license.

Mastering the Skies: From Skydiving to Wingsuit Flying

Sarah’s journey didn’t stop at skydiving. In 2014, she ventured into the realm of wingsuit flying, a discipline that combines the thrill of skydiving with the elegance of gliding. With over 5200 jumps and 1500 wingsuit flights under her belt, Sarah’s expertise is unparalleled. One standout moment in her career was in 2016 when she climbed onto the wing of a glider plane, a surreal experience that preceded an exhilarating leap into the unknown.

Her academic background in Human Resource Management and an MBA in International Business provided her with a structured approach to her skydiving endeavors. She obtained various certifications to deepen her expertise and share her knowledge with others, becoming an instructor and mentor to aspiring skydivers.

Integrating NLP: Enhancing Performance and Coaching

In 2018, Sarah incorporated Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) into her training and coaching methods. NLP provided her with valuable insights into human behavior and potential, allowing her to tailor coaching methodologies to individual learning styles. This approach has enhanced both her personal performance and her effectiveness as a coach, helping her students achieve their full potential.

Safety and Mentorship: Core Values

Safety is paramount in Sarah’s approach to skydiving. She emphasizes rigorous adherence to emergency protocols and meticulous equipment maintenance. As a coach, she advocates for prudent progression, holistic preparedness, and responsible decision-making among her students.

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of Sarah’s career. Influenced by seasoned practitioners like Stéphane Zunino and Ryan Chee, she has developed a supportive ecosystem conducive to growth and camaraderie. This network of mentors and peers has been instrumental in her development as both an athlete and a coach.

Overcoming Adversity: Resilience and Determination

Sarah’s skydiving career has not been without its trials. She has faced the challenges of balancing sport with familial responsibilities, managing time and self-care, and dealing with injuries and the loss of comrades. Despite these adversities, her unwavering resolve and commitment to safety and well-being have seen her through, turning obstacles into stepping stones on her path to mastery.

Future Aspirations: A Vision for the Skydiving Community

Looking to the future, Sarah’s aspirations are twofold: to continually refine her skills as an athlete and to nurture a new generation of skydivers through insightful coaching and mentorship. She aims to cultivate a culture of safety, camaraderie, and excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the skydiving community.

Advice for Aspiring Skydivers: Patience and Perseverance

Sarah’s advice to aspiring skydivers emphasizes patience, perseverance, and prudence. She advocates for a methodical approach to skill development, with safety as the top priority. Her message is clear: embrace each leap as a testament to your commitment to excellence and responsible stewardship of this awe-inspiring sport.

Balancing Passion and Professionalism

Striking a balance between personal passion and professional obligations, Sarah maintains discipline and foresight. By conscientiously delineating priorities and adhering to a structured schedule, she harmonizes her roles as a dedicated athlete and mentor while prioritizing the well-being of her loved ones.

Sarah Saatchian’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit of exploration. Her story inspires others to pursue their dreams of flight, embodying the limitless possibilities that the skies offer.