Discovering a New Path: From Layoffs to Mermaid Dreams
A decade ago, Marielle Henault found herself in Montreal, freshly laid off from her job at a large telecommunications company. Feeling lost and uncertain about her future, a friend shared a video of a mermaid school in Germany as a way to lift her spirits.
As she watched the graceful movements of the mermaids gliding through the water, something inside her stirred. In that moment, Henault made a bold decision - she wanted to become a mermaid herself.
At that time, Henault said, she didn't know of many mermaid schools in North America so she decided to open a school in Canada – for herself and others who wanted to learn the craft. There was very little information at the time and she didn't know how to become a mermaid. She bought a basic fabric tail with a mono fin and said she "paid about $100" to begin — entering a career and a community that has brought her around the world and more joy than she ever expected, Henault said.
A mermaid's tale
Known as a symbol of luck, fertility and beauty — but also as destructive as the nature of water — mermaid tales are told in cultures around the world with the earliest legend appearing in Syria around 1000 BC.
Humans have always had a fascination with mermaids, writes University of Liverpool professor Sarah Peverley, a medieval historian, and mermaid expert on her blog. She writes that the "medieval church used mermaids and sirens to teach Christians about sin and salvation." Books, videos, and fairy tales including Hans Christian Andersen's beloved, "The Little Mermaid," which has been made into numerous movie versions and Disney iterations have kept the public's interest alive in these sea creatures.
This fascination grew into today's mermaid economy which can range from teaching exercise classes to participating in mermaid competitions – allowing this quirky niche to become a full-time career for some. Mermaids can compete in competitions; the China Mermaid Open Championship drew 60 competitors from around the world in 2023, and the Miss Mermaid, King & Queen of the Seas competition was featured on the Netflix series, MerPeople.
In the mystical world of mermaids, there exists a community of about 1,000 professional mermaids, according to one mermaid enthusiast. These mermaids can be found participating in competitions worldwide or pursuing their careers in various aquatic endeavors.
For those enchanted by the idea of swimming like a mermaid, the allure of performing in an aquarium is described as a "magical dream" and a highly sought-after opportunity for the season.
A decade ago, one mermaid started her journey by harnessing her natural swimming abilities and passion for the water. "Water is my element," she expressed. By mastering the art of monofin and synchronized swimming, she was able to launch her own mermaid classes, charging $60 per session for those eager to learn the ways of the mermaid.
"People want to embody the spirit of mermaids. I create mermaid lessons and experiences based on my own vision of this magical world. It's a realm where I have the freedom to explore and create," she shared.
Exploring new opportunities
As she delved deeper into her mermaid journey, this aquatic artist sought out new avenues to sustain herself financially. Recognizing the importance of diversifying income streams, she highlighted various opportunities for mermaids to thrive. These include being hired for private parties, corporate events, teaching classes, selling fins, or working at waterparks and aquariums, among other possibilities.
Henault emphasized the importance of having a deep "passion" for the mermaid field due to the physically demanding nature of the work, common sinus infections, and the significant pressure on appearance — which can attract undesirable individuals known as "merverts." She mentioned that their community has established protective measures and effective communication strategies, but for new mermaids, the journey can involve numerous challenges and rewards.
Upon the inception of her mermaid enterprise, Aqua Mermaid, many years ago, Henault admitted to being clueless about the industry. Despite the initial success with classes, event appearances, and tail sales, everything came to a standstill with the onset of the global pandemic, leading to the suspension of all in-person activities. During this period, she transitioned into a booking agent role for mermaids seeking employment, receiving a small commission from their earnings in exchange.
"I receive inquiries for mermaid bookings from various locations including Canada, the U.S., and Dubai," Henault shared, as she arranges gigs for numerous mermaids within her network. Her future plans involve designing training programs and retreats for aspiring mermaids, aiming to impart her knowledge to the upcoming generation.
"As mermaids, we have the opportunity to explore, earn a living, radiate beauty, and glide through the water," Henault expressed. "The experience of being a mermaid is truly enchanting."
