Making waves at Veterans Outreach Support, Captain Louise Sara MNM, Fleet Captain and Director of Maritime Standards at Carnival UK, has been appointed as VOS’s first patron, recognising the charity’s strong links with those who have served under the ‘Red Duster’.
Louise began her maritime journey career in 2000 as a deck cadet. In 2013, she became P&O Ferries’ first female and youngest captain, earning Pilot Exemption Certificates for Dover, Calais, and Larne and in 2021, she joined Carnival Corporation as Fleet Captain and Director of Maritime Standards.
In 2024 she was the recipient of the prestigious Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service, recognising her outstanding contributions to leadership in the areas of seafarer welfare, safety, diversity and inclusion. She is also a Trustee of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, advocating for the welfare of seafarers across the UK.
Her appointment as Patron of VOS, coincides with the 10th anniversary of Merchant Navy Day 2025.
Captain Louise Sara MNM and VOS Patron, said:
“I am truly honoured and delighted to have been invited to become a Patron of Veterans Outreach Support (VOS). The work that VOS does to support veterans from both the Merchant Navy and the Armed Forces is deeply meaningful and aligns closely with my own values and lifelong commitment to maritime service and welfare.
“As Patron, I am keen to actively support and champion the vital services VOS provides – ensuring that those who have served our country receive the care, respect, and recognition they deserve. I look forward to working alongside the VOS team and fellow supporters to help raise awareness and strengthen the impact of this exceptional charity.”
Loise is a keen advocate for veterans and their families, championing the visibility of often overlooked veterans’ groups, including female and LGBTQ+ veterans, helping to raise awareness of the specific issues facing under-represented groups.
Her patronship of VOS builds on our drive to reinforce and amplify the specific needs of our diverse veteran community living across the South East region.
Ian Millen, CEO, VOS said:
“We are thrilled to welcome Louise on board today. Her distinguished career at sea and ashore sets her apart as an inspiring, unapologetic voice, who can advocate for veterans who have served under the ‘Red Duster’, ensuring that they are supported and not overlooked. Louise joins us to lend her voice and extensive experience to build awareness and support for our Merchant Navy seafarers, as part of a wider VOS Board of Trustees’ initiative to assemble a group of patrons that reflect the beneficiaries we serve. On this special day, when we celebrate and commemorate the service of our Merchant Navy colleagues, we are proud to see a Merchant Navy Captain leading from the front, demonstrating our charity’s firm commitment to serving UK non-military seafarers alongside our Armed Forces veterans and their families.”
