Historic handover in Northern Ireland
We meet Captain Hannah, who has recently taken the helm as the first female Captain Sea Cadets
Tuesday 16 December saw a very special Captain Sea Cadets Supersession at HMS Hibernia in Lisburn – the first time this ‘handover’ ceremony has been held in Northern Ireland. As well as allowing over 150 cadets, volunteers and VIPs to say farewell to Captain Neil Downing RN – in the surroundings of the Royal Navy Reserve unit he commanded from 2016 to 2021 – the event also marked the appointment of the first female Captain Sea Cadets, in Captain Hannah MacKenzie VR RN.
“Being the first female Captain Sea Cadets is an absolute honour, but I just think it reflects the fact that diversity is really important in the Royal Navy and Sea Cadets,” said Captain Hannah. “I’m looking forward to getting around the country to meet cadets and volunteers and hear about their experiences. Our incredible units are great vehicles for developing young people and delivering positive outcomes, so I’m really excited to see that in action.”
Captain Hannah overcame a serious knee injury to forge a successful career in the Royal Naval Reserve, taking on a huge variety of high-profile leadership roles. These have seen her support NATO commands on navigational safety, become Officer-in-Charge of the UK Maritime Trade Operations in Dubai, and help plan the UK’s Covid-19 response in its Overseas Territories. Closer to home, she has commanded the RNR unit HMS Wildfire, led the Royal Navy’s youth and diversity engagement across Eastern England, and served as Maritime Reserves’ Safety Lead and principal adviser on RNR unit operations.
Captain Hannah formally took up the role of Captain Sea Cadets on 1 January 2026. “I’m honoured to be joining Sea Cadets as Captain – a historic role which reflects the importance of our partnership with the Royal Navy,” she reflected. “I want to help make that relationship even stronger. With our hardworking and dedicated volunteers and employees working towards a 30% growth in cadet numbers by 2030, there has never been a more exciting time for Sea Cadets,” Captain Hannah concluded.
“This Supersession marks a truly historic moment for Sea Cadets,” agreed MSSC CEO Guy Holloway. “The appointment of Captain Hannah reflects both her strategic leadership skills and our progressive vision for the future of our charity. Her passion for developing people while championing inclusion and opportunity will be vital in helping Sea Cadets grow and provide amazing experiences for even more young people.”
“It’s definitely very special to have the Supersession ceremony held here in Northern Ireland,” said Leading Cadet Sophie of Ballymena Unit. “Not only because Captain Downing is from here, but to celebrate the fact that we do have cadets over here. It’s definitely special!”
Guy also paid tribute to Captain Neil Downing for his “outstanding service and commitment to the role” during four years which saw him increase Sea Cadets’ engagement with the Royal Navy and oversee our return to full activity after the pandemic. “It’s a privilege and an honour to host the Supersession handover between the two Captains,” said LC Brandon of Belfast Eagle Unit. “I don’t know if we’ll have another Captain Sea Cadets from Northern Ireland in my lifetime.”
“Being part of the Supersession has taught me a lot about teamwork,” reflected LC Sophie. “Getting to see people I haven’t met before, from all the different units in Northern Ireland, and working together as one big team.”
Captain Neil, we wish you all the very best for the future and hope that our paths will cross on many occasions to come. Thank you and BZ!
Photos: Sea Cadets
