The Star reports that SA’s first and only female officer able to navigate a submarine, Lieutenant Gillian Malouw, is determined to progress in the combat branch to inspire others.
“The world is filled with naysayers and negativity, but no one can take away what you’ve learnt and no one can take away your dreams. If you truly want something, do everything in your power to make it happen,” Malouw told the Cape Times. The 28-year-old said she was proud that she was able to accomplish what she had set out to do. “For the first time in the history of our submarine service, we have a female in a leadership position and in line to command a submarine. It shows we are moving in the right direction.” She joined the sea cadets when she was doing Grade 7 and made the decision to join the navy in Grade 9, when her cousin (Lieutenant-Commander Nsibande) joined. Malouw was accepted to start basic military training in January 2010. She described her job as an officer of the watch at sea as interesting. “This means that when I am on watch, I am accountable to the Officer Commanding for the safety of the boat in all aspects,” she explained.
- Read more of Gillian Malouw’s report on this story that appeared in The Star at SA Labour News
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