The maritime industry, one of the world’s most vital sectors, is responsible for transporting goods, products, and people across the seas. At the forefront of this industry is Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS), a leading shipping company headquartered in Singapore, managing a fleet of over 160 container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers. EPS embraces a culture of giving back through EPS Cares, a corporate social responsibility initiative created to support people and communities through donations, fundraising, and volunteer work.

In a meaningful step to empower Singapore’s maritime community, the Idan and Batia Ofer Family Foundation announced a scholarship fund in 2020, pledging SGD 200,000 annually for an initial period of three years. The fund offers full academic scholarships to Singaporean citizens aspiring to pursue careers in maritime business, marine engineering, or as seafarers. Beyond financial support, the goal of the scholarship fund is to serve as a bridge to the next generation of maritime leaders in Singapore, ensuring that those passionate about building rewarding careers in the maritime industry are equipped with the tools and resources needed to develop their talents and maximize their potential.

The scholarship fund is managed in partnership with the MaritimeONE Scholarship Programme, an initiative run by the Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF). Both organizations share a mission to engage with the community and strengthen the local maritime ecosystem. As of 2023, nine scholarships have been awarded across fields such as engineering, architecture, maritime business, and seafaring. Among the recipients is 20-year-old Andrea Mckeown, currently in her third and final year of marine engineering studies at the Singapore Maritime Academy.

Andrea, who completed her second academic year as a Dean’s List honoree, shared how the scholarship impacted her: “Of course, the scholarship was a financial blessing, but beyond that, it gave me the opportunity to attend various networking events,” she said. The scholarship enabled her to take part in industry events, connect with peers from diverse academic backgrounds, and even meet professionals from the Singapore Maritime Foundation. Through these interactions, she gained valuable insights into the maritime industry and strengthened her determination to pursue a career in this dynamic field.

As Andrea progresses in her studies, her future looks promising. “I usually focus on the steps I can take to grow into my future, rather than fixating on the destination,” she noted. Her vision includes improving her efficiency in the workplace and understanding the evolving landscape of the maritime industry. She sees the scholarship as a catalyst for her growth as a woman in a male-dominated field, emphasizing that perseverance and determination open doors to opportunity.

The Idan and Batia Ofer Family Foundation expresses its joy in supporting promising individuals like Andrea and believes that the scholarship fund will shed light on the many opportunities within the maritime industry, inspiring younger minds to consider a career at sea.