Warsash cadet wins 2023 Bevis Minter Award

Maritime Officer Cadet at Solent University's Warsash Maritime School, Molvipa (Molly) Takhiansok, has scooped the UK Maritime Bevis Minter Award, for showing resilience and overcoming challenges during her cadetship. 

The recently qualified deck officer, whose sponsor and employer is Princess Cruises, struggled to complete her cadetship due to the coronavirus pandemic as well as overcoming other personal challenges.

Molvipa says of her win,

“Only two weeks before I was seriously grafting for my orals exam, and that was the only thing I could think about. After getting through that at my first attempt, this was the cherry on top of the cake. My family back in Thailand are very proud and it has given me the boost and confidence I needed to continue and push for myself and my studies; to want things that I'm afraid to say out loud. This award has restored my confidence that hard work pays off.”

Molly started her cadetship well, but after the first sea phase she was diagnosed with a health condition which threatened her future. She was faced with a serious surgery, which was postponed when Covid struck. After successful surgery, Molly started her long road to recovery, during which she persevered with her studies - impressing teaching staff with her positive attitude, great work ethic, willingness to work hard despite not being well and her progress.

Speaking about the support she received from Warsash she said,

“When I became ill it was quite a dark time for me, the worries and the anxiety I had both for my health and career were hard to escape from”

“I remember how my teacher, Claire, would spare me some of her lunch time or even after class, to have a chat and a catch-up on how I was feeling and that made me feel like I was not alone.”

“What also helped me and gave me the push and motivation was how much attention my teacher, Branimir, took in reading my essay/dissertation. At that time, I was studying in bed recovering from a major operation and the amount of positive feedback I received, and the constant encouragement really helped me to push as I didn't want to let either myself down or my teachers.”

Guiseppe Saiva, Head of Cadet Education says,

“It was a special day for the academic team at Warsash to have Molly recognised for her hard work, determination, and resilience. Throughout everything her spirit has remained unbreakable. She has been an inspiration to both the staff here and her peers, and I am sure she will have a successful career in the maritime industry.”

Molly received the award at the 2023 Maritime UK Awards in Hull. Speaking on behalf of Nautilus International, who sponsored the award,

Helen Kelly, their director of communications, campaigns and digital, says,

“I have no doubt Molly will go on to achieve great success in her career as a maritime professional. I look forward to watching her go from strength to strength.”

For further information contact the Media Office on 023 8201 3040 or email news(at)solent.ac.uk