A Memphis woman is earning international recognition after completing a record-breaking scuba diving journey that spanned every continent on Earth in under two weeks.
Corhonda Dawson, who grew up in the Whitehaven section of Memphis, was honored by the Shelby County Commission on Feb. 9, 2026, following her historic achievement.
In April 2025, Dawson entered the Guinness World Records after becoming the fastest person to complete dives off the coasts of all seven continents. She accomplished the feat in 11 days, 19 hours, and 23 minutes — nearly six days faster than the previous record.
A Record Built on Determination
Dawson’s journey required far more than diving skill. Strict rules governing the record attempt meant she had to rely primarily on public transportation and commercial flights, navigating complex global travel logistics while racing against time.
Her expedition began in Antarctica and concluded on April 13, 2025, in California, where she completed her final dive alongside her two daughters.
Dawson said the accomplishment carries personal and cultural significance.
“It’s really important for me to make this transferable,” she said. “I want to show every little girl or boy that no matter where you come from — even somewhere far from an ocean — you can still make history.”
From Personal Healing to Global Recognition
Dawson first took up scuba diving in 2010 while seeking a new focus after a difficult divorce. What began as a recreational outlet quickly evolved into a passion and eventually a mission.
Her training started at The Dive Shop, an east Memphis diving center that offers instruction and certification.
“She’s been associated with this dive center forever,” said dive instructor Kelly Green. “We’re proud to see her achieve something so remarkable.”
Over time, Dawson progressed from beginner to certified dive master. In 2024, she also became the first Black woman to dive in all five of the world’s oceans — a milestone that set the stage for her record-breaking global challenge.
Inspiring a New Generation
Dawson’s achievement has resonated widely, particularly during Black History Month, as a symbol of representation in a sport where Black female participation remains rare.
Her daughter, Nya Bolton, said she recently highlighted her mother’s accomplishment in a workplace Black History Month newsletter.
“To have someone so close to me be part of Black history — and it’s happening right now — is incredibly special,” Bolton said.
For Dawson, the record represents more than personal success. She hopes it encourages others to pursue ambitions regardless of their circumstances.
“A lot of this came from starting over and learning new things,” she said. “And everything I learned, my kids learned too.”
Her story, she added, is proof that even the most unlikely dreams — like becoming a world-record diver from a landlocked city — are within reach.
