Ahoy, fellow dreamers and adventurers! As we celebrate World Seafarers’ Day, let’s dive into the incredible journey of KC Abigail Chin-Sood—a woman who’s not just breaking the waves but also shattering stereotypes. At 36 years old, Abigail is a second officer on a product or crude oil tanker, and she’s been riding the tides of the maritime world for nearly 11 years. Let’s explore how this remarkable woman went from dreaming of the courtroom and cockpit to navigating the high seas.
From Dreams to Reality: A Journey of Transformation
Growing up in the vibrant city of Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao, KC Abigail never pictured herself in a seafaring role. Instead, she had aspirations of becoming a lawyer or even a pilot! But life has a funny way of steering us in unexpected directions. Due to financial hurdles, she explored alternative paths, ultimately following in her father’s footsteps—a chief officer who inspired her to chase her nautical dreams. With his guidance, KC Abigail embarked on a journey that would take her across the globe, confronting challenges and discovering her true calling.
However, the waters weren’t always smooth sailing. “I faced bullying and discrimination when I started out,” she recalls, reflecting on those early days. “People doubted me, saying I’d get pregnant and quit.” But instead of letting those harsh words sink her spirit, she used them as fuel for her fire. With an unwavering determination, she pushed beyond her limits, proving that she was here to stay. Today, she’s not just surviving; she’s thriving as a seasoned seafarer, managing navigation, medical care, and even cybersecurity on board her vessel. Talk about multitasking!
Navigating Life at Sea and Beyond
Now, let’s talk about the reality of life at sea. KC Abigail’s work schedule is a whirlwind, with rotations that can keep her away from home for months at a time. “When we’re in port, my schedule stays the same, but our focus shifts to cargo operations,” she explains. From handling crude oil to traversing vast routes—from America to Europe and beyond—her days are anything but boring! Yet, amidst the chaos, she finds ways to stay connected with her loved ones. “It’s not always easy, but even a short message can bring comfort on tough days,” she shares, echoing the sentiment that distance doesn’t have to separate hearts.
Speaking of distance, KC Abigail has been married for three years to another seafarer—a master mariner! “One of the major challenges we face is the long-distance relationship, but we manage to keep it healthy,” she says with a smile. Their shared passion for the sea helps them navigate the stormy waters of marriage and work life. As she looks to the future, Abigail aims to advance her career and mentor aspiring seafarers. Currently, she’s pursuing a management-level course to obtain her higher license, proving that the horizon is just the beginning.
KC Abigail's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance. “Life at sea is tough—you need to be strong mentally, emotionally, and spiritually,” she advises. “Keep learning, and never settle for less.” With her passion and dedication, she’s not just a role model for women everywhere but a beacon of inspiration for anyone daring to chase their dreams. So, let’s raise our anchors and set sail towards our own adventures, inspired by KC Abigail’s incredible story!
