October 20 - Marine engineer Kelly Klaasen has won the 2010 SAMSA (South African Maritime Safety Authority) Seafarer of the Year Award - which aims to recognise the valuable contribution seafarers make to everyday life - was presented to Kelly's parents,

Kelly, who made Safmarine history in July this year when she was appointed the company's first female engineer, said she was extremely happy and surprised to have won, considering the calibre of her fellow nominees, which include Safmarine's first female master, Captain Louise Angel, and chief engineer Rob Lawson. Kelly is currently serving as fourth engineer onboard the Safmarine Bayete.

The Maritime Studies Programme prepares young South Africans for a career in the maritime industry by providing them with practical skills while they are still at school.