Gillian Hector, a remarkable South African naval officer, etched her name in history as the pioneering female submarine navigator in Africa, a rare feat in the global landscape of naval submarine officers.
Tragically, on the 22nd of September 2023, at the youthful age of 32, Gillian’s life was cut short during a submarine incident off the coast of Kommetjie, Cape Town. Her untimely demise sent shockwaves through her family, friends, colleagues, and admirers, leaving behind cherished memories of a humble, endearing, and devoted individual who had an unwavering passion for both her career and her loved ones.
She Was Just 32 Years old When She Left The World
Gillian Elizabeth Malouw came into the world on the 14th of February 1991 in Schauderville, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), South Africa. She was born to Bernadette and David Malouw and was accompanied by two siblings, David Jr. and Bradley. Her early years saw her attending St. Thomas Senior Secondary School, where she displayed academic excellence and a keen interest in the realms of science and mathematics. Alongside her studies, she actively participated in extracurricular pursuits, including chess, netball, and choir.
In 2008, after completing her secondary education, she embarked on her academic journey at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU). Her academic pursuits led her to a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and applied mathematics, which she proudly obtained in 2011.
Gillian Hector Was Happy To Getting A High Rank During Her Navy Career
Driven by her deep-seated passion for the maritime environment, Gillian Hector joined the ranks of the South African Navy as a student officer in 2012. Her training commenced at the South African Naval College in Gordon’s Bay, followed by intensive further training at the Maritime Warfare School in Simon’s Town.
Throughout her naval career, Gillian Hector achieved remarkable milestones. She ascended the ranks, attaining the titles of sub-lieutenant in 2014, lieutenant in 2016, and lieutenant commander in 2019. Her service extended to various naval vessels, including the SAS Drakensberg, the SAS Amatola, and the SAS Protea. Her commitment to excellence was evident through her completion of numerous specialized courses and qualifications, including the Junior Staff Course, the Bridge Watchkeeping Certificate, the Navigation Officer Course, and the Submarine Officer Course.
In 2019, Gillian Hector left an indelible mark by becoming the first female officer in Africa to navigate a submarine. This historic achievement was realized while serving aboard the SAS Manthatisi, one of South Africa’s three submarines. Her remarkable journey also saw her gain recognition as one of the world’s rare women naval submarine officers. Gillian often described her work on submarines as both challenging and rewarding, relishing her role as part of a team that operated complex machinery under extreme conditions.
She openly acknowledged the hurdles she faced as a woman in a predominantly male domain but remained undaunted, determined to inspire other young women to pursue their dreams and shatter stereotypes. Gillian took immense pride in representing her nation and her continent as a distinguished naval officer.
Off Duty, She Always Performed a Perfect Wife To Her Husband
In April 2021, Gillian Hector celebrated her marriage to her longtime partner, Romero Hector. Their love story began at NMMU, where they were both immersed in the study of mathematics. Their union welcomed a son, Tristan Hector, into the world on the 25th of December 2021. Gillian was a devoted wife and mother, prioritizing her family above all else. She shared a close bond with her parents, brothers, cousins, aunts, and uncles, frequently visiting them in Gqeberha and maintaining regular contact.
Beyond her professional and familial roles, Gillian remained committed to her faith. She actively participated in the St. Thomas Anglican Church in Schauderville, contributing her voice to the church choir and engaging in various church activities. Her compassionate spirit extended to supporting charitable causes, including orphanages and animal shelters.
Wiki
| Name | Gillian Elizabeth Hector (née Malouw) |
| Born | 14 February 1991 |
| Age | 32 years |
| Died | 22 September 2023 (aged 32) |
| Place of birth | Schauderville, Gqeberha, South Africa |
| Place of death | Offshore in Kommetjie, Cape Town, South Africa |
| Cause of death | Submarine incident |
| Nationality | South African |
| Facebook link | (5) Gillian Malouw | Facebook |
| Occupation | Navy officer |
| Rank | Lieutenant Commander |
| Spouse | Romero Hector (m. 2021) |
| Children | Tristan Hector (b. 2021) |
| Family member | Anita Malouw and Francine Langeveldt, |
| Parents | Bernadette Malouw (mother) David Malouw (father) |
| Siblings | David Malouw Jr. (brother) Bradley Malouw (brother) |
She Received Lots Of Love From Her Followers After Her Death
On the fateful day of September 22, 2023, Gillian Hector’s life was tragically extinguished during a naval exercise off the coast of Kommetjie in Cape Town. She was among three officers who lost their lives when a massive wave struck their submarine. The other two officers were Lieutenant Commander Mpho Molefe and Petty Officer First Class Thabo Mokoena. Initial reports suggested that Molefe and Mokoena were swept out to sea by the force of the wave during what appeared to be an exercise. Hector’s body was later recovered from the submarine by the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).
Gillian Hector’s passing cast a shadow of grief over South Africa and beyond. President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his condolences to her family, lauding her for her dedicated service to the nation. Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the three officers, pledging a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Chief of the South African Navy Vice Admiral Mosuwa Hlongwane expressed his devastation, saluting the officers’ bravery and professionalism.
For her family, Gillian’s departure marked an agonizing period of coming to terms with the inexplicable loss. Her husband, Romero, cherished her as his soulmate and best friend, pledging eternal love. Her mother, Bernadette, regarded her as both daughter and hero, carrying the ache of her absence. Her father, David, remembered her as his princess and inspiration, holding her memory close.
Gillian Hector will forever be remembered as a trailblazer and hero who defied boundaries and made history as the first female officer in Africa to navigate a submarine. Her legacy also reflects the image of a humble, endearing, and dedicated individual who cherished her vocation and her family.
Her life story will serve as a wellspring of inspiration for countless young women aspiring to join the navy or pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Gillian Hector stands as a beacon for South Africans eager to serve their nation and continent with unwavering dignity and pride.
Latest Trending;
