In the latest local short film Woman of the Sea, filmmaker Aprille Zammit captures Nikki Muscat’s deep and evolving relationship with the sea — from Olympic swimmer to freediver.

Water has always been her world. From the rigorous discipline of Olympic swimming to the tranquil depths of freediving, Nikki has spent her life in motion—guided by the sea.

In Woman of the Sea, we follow Nikki’s transformation as she leaves behind the structured lanes of competition to embrace the raw freedom of the ocean.

Through breathtaking underwater visuals and intimate reflections, this film captures her deep connection to the water—the place where she feels most at peace.

This is more than a story of sport. It’s a love letter to the sea and a reminder of what we can all appreciate from living on an island in the Mediterranean.

And fascinatingly enough, the entire film was shot without tanks, using their own breath hold.

Aprille Zammit is a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans film photography, screen printing, and, most recently, underwater photography and videography. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University in the United States, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Aprille’s artistic journey is driven by a deep connection to nature—particularly the sea.

Her work reflects her reverence for the natural world, capturing fleeting moments that inspire hope and gratitude. With an experimental and playful approach to her creative process, Aprille continuously pushes artistic boundaries, allowing her ideas to evolve organically.

Aprille has exhibited her work in both Malta and the United States. Woman of the Sea, her debut feature film, marks a significant milestone in her career as a producer, filmmaker, and editor.

Meanwhile, Nikki is a two-time Olympic swimmer, freediving instructor, and passionate ocean advocate. Her journey began at six, inspired by the Maltese Olympic team at the 2000 Sydney Games.

After years of balancing academics and athletics, Nikki achieved national records, competed in the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics, and later graduated as a Registered Nurse in Malta.

Transitioning from competitive swimming, Nikki founded Finz Aquatics Club and now serves as Head Swimming Coach. Her deep love for the ocean led her to become a freediving instructor and participate in various voluntary conservation projects, with the ultimate goal of dedicating her life to ocean conservation.

In addition to her aquatic pursuits, Nikki is an entrepreneur, launching Alka Ocean Products, focused on sustainable algae use, and Nikki Nutrition, which offers health and wellness guidance. Nikki’s multifaceted career reflects her dedication to the sea, business, and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

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