We are thrilled to welcome Hannah Staal to the Ocean Youth Trust (OYT) Scotland team as our new Cadet! Hannah took up the post on 6th October 2023 and has since delivered our final On Board with Cashback voyage of the year with the New Scots.
We sat down with Hannah to talk about her life before the cadetship and what she hopes to achieve in this position…
How did you first hear about OYT Scotland?
My first experience with OYT Scotland was as a young person on a voyage last summer (2022). I loved it so much that I came back as soon as possible to do my bosun training that autumn. I heard about the Trust through my brother who used to sail as a bosun. I remember when I was little seeing him going away to volunteer on voyages and always wanting to join him.
What interested you about the cadet role?
I was mostly interested in the cadet role as it seemed like such an amazing opportunity that I just couldn’t miss. I left school this year and the cadetship came at the right time and was exactly what I was looking for.
What do you want to achieve as a cadet?
By the end of the cadetship, I want to be working towards my First Mate qualification with the hope that one day I’ll be sailing as a fully qualified skipper – hopefully making a difference and having a bit of fun along the way!
What are you most looking forward to?
I’m most looking forward to meeting lots of new people and hopefully learning lots, both in the sailing season and during refit.