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In the maritime world, where leadership roles are traditionally held by men, Vince Lee is making waves as the Second Officer of North Borneo Cruises. Her journey is not one of convention but of perseverance, opportunity, and an unyielding drive to learn and grow.

Vince’s story with North Borneo Cruises began in 2021, not as an officer but as part of the Service Crew. At the time, she had no maritime experience – her previous role was as a cashier. Yet, her dedication and eagerness to take on new challenges stood out. Recognising her potential, North Borneo Cruises invested in her development, providing her with the training and skills necessary to become an officer.

“I never imagined myself in this role,” Vince shares. “When the opportunity came, I took it even though I had no prior experience. The company saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself at the time, and that made all the difference.”

Her transition into an officer’s role was far from easy. Stepping into a male-dominated industry, she faced initial doubts and skepticism. However, through hard work, continuous learning, and proving herself on the job, she gained the respect and trust of her colleagues. “At first, I had to prove that I belonged here. Now, my team sees my capability, and we support each other,” she says.

One of Vince’s strengths is her ability to multitask, a skill she honed from her early days in the hospitality industry. “As a Service Crew member, I handled multiple responsibilities at once – cashiering, safety briefings, registration, and even clearing tables. Now, as an officer, I apply the same efficiency in monitoring reports, navigating, and ensuring smooth operations onboard,” she explains.

For Vince, the thrill of being at the helm of a vessel is unmatched. “It’s an incredible experience, something I never thought I’d be doing,” she says. “It’s proof that no matter your background, if you’re willing to learn and push yourself, you can go far.”

Her story is a testament to North Borneo Cruises’ commitment to nurturing talent from within. By recognising dedication and fostering growth, the company ensures that individuals like Vince have the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their starting point.

To other women considering a career in the maritime industry, Vince has simple but powerful advice: “Don’t be afraid to take the first step. You don’t have to know everything at the start – you just need the willingness to learn. Every great journey starts with an opportunity, and when it comes, take it.”

At North Borneo Cruises, the horizon is limitless for those ready to embark on their next adventure. Vince’s journey is just one example of how passion, perseverance, and the right support can steer anyone toward success.