Ocean Plymouth Network Host Their First Ever Guest Talk

Written by: UPSU

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Ocean Plymouth Network Host Their First Ever Guest Talk

We hosted our first ever guest talk on 26^th February 2026. We hosted Lilah Khan and Luke Kendall from Plymouth Sound National Marine Park (PSNMP), and what followed was an honest and refreshing conversation about careers, confidence, and carving your own path in the marine sector.

The Marine Park talk mattered because it made the marine sector feel real. Instead of just hearing about careers in theory, students got honest insight from people actually working within Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. For example, what their jobs look like day-to-day, how they got there, and what they wish they’d known at university. It reminded everyone that marine careers aren’t straight lines, and that’s okay.

For University of Plymouth students, Ocean Plymouth Network creates space for those kinds of conversations - connecting lectures to lived experience, bridging the gap between campus and the sector, and making pathways feel visible and accessible rather than overwhelming.

And there is plenty more on the way! :)

“Beyond… community, activities and volunteering programs [the Park] invests in major council projects …” and is actively investing in large-scale initiatives – including, “… creating digital spaces that reflect the world we’re moving into.” - Lilah Khan, Speaker

“...it’s easy to stretch yourself too thin. Not only will that [lead to] burnout – it will dilute your presence. Identify the one or two spaces where you feel you’ve been invested back into and stick with them.” – Luke Kendall, Speaker

"It was a powerful reminder: not all professional development looks professional at the time. At the same time, Luke offered a word of caution. With so many societies, roles, and opportunities available" - OPN

"The overarching message from the evening was both grounding and empowering:
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
You don’t need the perfect job immediately.
Your pathway doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s.
Stay open. Stay engaged. Build depth where it matters. And trust that the experiences you’re gathering – even the unexpected ones – are shaping you in ways you may not yet see." - OPN

"Your career isn’t something to figure out – it’s an adventure unfolding in real time. Lean into the unknown, be excited about the journey, and follow Emerging Ocean Pathways Network for more insights, opportunities, and stories shaping the future of the marine sector." - OPN

"We are a new society and student group, but we’ve already been able to do some incredible things - and that’s entirely because of the people behind it. Scarlett, for running admin and keeping us organised and structured.

Dan, for leading on Health and Safety and making sure everything runs responsibly and smoothly. Your attention to detail allows us to create meaningful opportunities with confidence. Faye, for managing our social media and helping us share what we’re building so beautifully. The visibility and professionalism you bring allow us to share who we are in the quality of what we offer. And Maheen, for capturing these moments so thoughtfully. The photos don’t just document events - they tell the story of a growing community.

OPN may be new, but the energy, commitment, and professionalism of this team is what’s allowing us to grow intentionally. It has been so fun working with everyone and I’m incredibly grateful to be building this alongside you all." – Destiny, Chair