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Advancing Her Passion for Maritime with the YES Club

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“The maritime industry excites me with developments leading to sustainable shipping and digitalisation in the future of maritime,” says Natasha Khoo, President of the Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA) Club and YES Club member.
It is clear that Natasha’s passion for maritime runs deep.
Exposed to maritime from a tender age as her father works in a related field, she has long shared an interest in the industry. Keen to learn more about the industry and to build a career in it, she chose to pursue a Diploma in Maritime Business with the Singapore Polytechnic.
In this interview, Natasha shares on her maritime journey thus far and how the YES Club has aided her through it.
At the Singapore Maritime Academy’s waterfront facility *photo taken pre-Covid
How did you find out about the YES Club and what aspects of the YES Club drew you in?
I received a publicity email which invited me to join a YES Club networking event. My seniors also previously shared with me their positive experiences with YES Club. This convinced me to take the first step and sign up for the event.
The first session I attended was virtual and hosted on Kumospace. Like many newcomers, I was hesitant as I was unsure of how effective a virtual networking session can be. Yet, this interactive platform has allowed me to meet many people from all walks of life and we exchanged stories on our own experiences in maritime. Since YES Club has a good mix of both students and maritime professionals, I was able to connect with my peers while obtaining new insights from more experienced individuals.
Do you think networking sessions are important?
Definitely. The maritime industry is very broad, and it is almost impossible for the school curriculum to cover all grounds. By interacting and listening to the experiences of others in the field, I can broaden my perspective and develop a deeper understanding of maritime—especially how the different sectors are interconnected.
While many shy away from networking and feel that it is just a practical way to obtain job opportunities, I think that on a deeper level, it is also about understanding and developing strong relationships. There are many intangible takeaways that one can obtain from networking such as being able to hear insightful discussions by young talents and maritime professionals, and I highly encourage everyone to participate in them.
Have you participated in any maritime related internships?
I took on an internship with Maersk Line in the second year of my diploma studies, and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Although my internship happened during the peak of the pandemic, it did not stop me from actively learning on the job where I was able to apply knowledge that I have learnt in school.
Despite the physical constraints, the team went above and beyond to take care of me and patiently guided me throughout my internship journey.
Natasha’s work from home setup
Are there any upcoming trends in maritime that excite you?
I am most excited about decarbonisation. Since young, I have always been passionate about the environment and had the dream of building a net zero world. At that time, many dismissed my views as idealism, but seeing the industry that I love work towards the same goals that I have delights me greatly. I am proud to be part of an industry that is actively working to transform its business processes towards shaping a more sustainable future. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to attend the SMF New Year Conversations and decarbonisation was raised during the panel discussion as well. I could not contain my excitement, especially when I heard the plans that these industry leaders have in store to bring maritime to new heights.
Would you recommend your peers to join the YES Club?
I would definitely recommend my peers to join the YES Club as they can take this opportunity to widen their view and knowledge on the maritime industry. The maritime industry has gone through a lot of transformation and the YES Club is the best place for students like us to hear from industry professionals. It is insightful to hear different perspectives on the industry and job roles from people in the YES Club. The networking session at the YES Club was such a refreshing one and I can’t wait for the next session!
Are you as excited as Natasha about maritime’s transformation? Learn more about this dynamic industry and engage in stimulating conversations with maritime students and professionals through the YES Club!
Registration is free. Drop us an email at yesclub@sgmf.com.sg to be part of the club.

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