All the World’s a Stage and all the men and women merely players” as it takes a team to get the show on the road.
A former drama student, I changed one stage for another, starting my maritime journey in 2014 and cadetship in 2015 before qualifying in 2018 and serving on ships deployed on global operations in support of counter narcotics, counter piracy and humanitarian assistance disaster relief. Actively striving to shape my career beyond my core role, I volunteered on the steamship SS Shieldhall as a deck officer enhancing skillsets. It was the birth of my son that started me on my path of advocacy, fighting for the rights of parents, and women in particular, in the maritime defence sector. I gained my Chief Mates Unlimited qualification 3 months to the day after giving birth: a significant achievement.
There is a huge gulf between what we expect as a modern society and the policies in force and the people who stick rigidly to the status quo. Defence is better when we support our people, striving to retain those passionate about their careers wanting to balance those with family life. I now work on projects pan-Navy, developing the next strategic policies and capabilities, continuing to advocate for parents in maritime and raise awareness of areas where we are lack.
My journey is a testament to resilience, determination and never giving up despite resistance. I am proud of the incredible individuals who try to shape Defence for the better and hope my son will be proud of his Mommy for what I’m doing.