Women in maritime
What did you want to become when you were a child?
For as long as I can remember, I always wanted a career working at sea. I went to an all-girls grammar school and I can still remember the odd look my careers teacher gave me when I told her I wanted to qualify as an officer and join the Merchant Navy. To this day, I think I’m one of the only pupils to do so. Luckily for me, my family and friends were super supportive of this decision….even if they did think I was a bit mad!
Why did you choose to work within shipping?
It was really important for me to have a career that was both rewarding and challenging. I never envisaged myself in a 9-5 job, I always wanted to travel the world and gain as much experience in my career as I could. I’ve met so many people from different walks of life, which has been brilliant. I can honestly say, from sailing deep sea with Maersk, to working with Stena Line, I am still challenged in my career every day.
What is your best work-related memory?
When I worked abroad, I saw some amazing places. I went ashore in Columbia on Independence Day, which was a great experience; so much music and good food. But my best memory is probably having shore leave in Dubai. The Captain organised a full day of activities for us, which included going up the Burj Khalifa – that was amazing!
Who has been your role model?
I would say that my grandfather has been my biggest role model. Sadly he passed away two years ago, but he showed me that through hard work and persistence, you can achieve anything you want to.