I began my career as a Deck Officer in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), serving for 13 years across the globe in support of UK defence.
Throughout my time in the RFA, I actively shaped my own career, seeking out opportunities beyond my core role to broaden my experience and make a meaningful impact. After a four-month deployment at sea, I took on a secondment with Border Force, conducting migrant rescue operations in the Aegean. It was both harrowing and rewarding, reinforcing my commitment to maritime security and humanitarian efforts. Later, I was seconded to the Royal Navy, first working in maritime enterprise engagement before securing a highly sought-after role in outreach and engagement within the Royal Navy Strategic Studies Centre—positions I proactively pursued to develop my expertise. However, balancing my career with family life became unsustainable, leaving me with no real choice but to resign. Refusing to let circumstances define me, I backed myself, applied for a role with greater responsibility and a significantly higher salary—and secured it. I am now an Assistant Director in the UK’s Joint Maritime Security Centre, where I feel more valued than ever. My journey is a testament to resilience, self-belief, and the power of forging my own path. I am incredibly proud of how far I have come, and I hope my children will be proud of their Mum too.