The determination of a mariner who grew up in a landlocked town without any seafaring background has won her the Maritime and Coastguard Agency's (MCA) prestigious Officer Trainee of the Year 2024 award.
Luka Haynes (28), who grew up in Chorley, is now an Officer of the Watch working on Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS) vessels. She described herself as "an ordinary person with a passion for learning and a determination to succeed".
She was presented with her prize by MCA Chief Executive Virginia McVea at the UK Chamber of Shipping's annual dinner on Monday 3 February 2025 at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House hotel, London.
Luka was nominated by Fleetwood Nautical Campus, near Blackpool, where she completed her studies as a mature student, having navigated the obstacles of the pandemic which began around the same time as her cadetship in 2020.
Members of the judging panel each highlighted how Luka had overcome Covid challenges and being a student again, while also supporting younger cadets facing their own obstacles.
One judge said Luka had "demonstrated exceptional resilience and determination in the face of significant adversity".
Another noted how she had been "so supportive of their classmates and would seek out those that are struggling".
Luka's path to working at sea made her the first in her family to follow such a career. It began as an eight-year-old entranced by the close-up sight of a vessel aground at Blackpool.
She soon joined the Sea Cadets but, growing up, later moved into a series of office jobs. Aged 23, however, the call of the sea came again and this time she signed up to be an officer cadet - and she's never looked back.
Luka said:
My only regret in this career is that I didn't do it sooner. I hope that younger students come through as the progression in the industry is quick and you are always learning professional and personal skills. There are so many options; wherever you are working - on shore or at sea - it's going to set you up for life.
MCA Chief Executive Virginia McVea said:
Luka demonstrates that maritime as a career is open to everyone and anyone to forge their path - no matter their background or experience.
Her drive and determination have made her stand out from an impressive field. She is a worthy recipient who reminds us of the thanks and respect we owe to all our trainees and those in service.
Luka's story is an inspiration, and she is a worthy recipient of the Officer Trainee of the Year 2024 award. It was a pleasure to celebrate her achievement, and I wish her all the best for a very promising career. I hope many more follow in Luka's footsteps as the UK maritime industry continues to flourish.
Commenting on her award, Luka added:
During my cadet training the Officer Trainee of the Year Award always stood out as a symbol of excellence. It was awarded to those who went above and beyond, individuals I deeply admired and who inspired me to achieve my Officer of the Watch certification.
I was stunned to learn that not only had I been nominated, but I had actually won. As someone from Chorley with no seafaring background, I saw myself as an ordinary person with a passion for learning and a determination to succeed.
Now, I'm excited to begin a career where hard work truly pays off, and I'll continue striving to reach new heights.
