As proud sponsors of the 2025 Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition, LA Marine spoke to last year’s winner, 23-year-old Amel Khsouma, to hear her insider perspective. From the creative process to the pressure of a live design brief, Amel shares her top tips, inspiration, and advice for standing out in the competitive world of innovative yacht design.

Q: Can you start by telling me a bit about yourself and your background in design?

A: I came to the UK four years ago to study at university, where I studied Automotive and Transport Design. Before that, I studied Nautical Science in Italy. Since I was young, I’ve always loved yachts and ships and everything about the nautical world. That passion drove me to explore the design aspect when I arrived at university. In my third year, I focused more on yacht design. I always enjoy challenging myself and pushing my limits to see how far I can go. My tutors encouraged me to enter the competition; they saw it on LinkedIn and said, “Just go for it.” So, I did. It was a great experience.

Q: What was the brief for the competition?

A: The brief was to design a charter yacht for a couple in their 40s that also functions as a research vessel. It had to be sustainable and accommodate marine biologists or researchers. I designed a yacht with a research hub in the centre, allowing for the study of the marine ecosystem while also providing a luxury charter experience for families. The idea was to combine scientific research with luxury, like a floating museum where you could enjoy coffee and learn from the researchers onboard. We had just a day and a half to come up with everything. Honestly, it was intense.  I started sketching right away. The first few hours were spent on doodles, and then I worked on posters the next day. Usually, you have weeks for this kind of thing, but here it was just go, go, go. But that pressure pushed me.

Q: Were there moments during the competition when you felt confident or unsure?

A: During sketching, there were so many people walking around, visitors, judges, it was overwhelming. I had moments of doubt. But when it came time to present, something clicked. I felt confident. That was the moment when I thought, “Yes, I did something good.” I loved it. I enjoy presenting my ideas, and I felt a burst of confidence. The judges were supportive; they asked thoughtful questions and gave great feedback. I explained the concept as a story, showing the life cycle of the yacht in my poster, and they liked that approach.

Q: You won a month-long internship with Sunseeker. How was that experience?

A: It was a great experience, mainly because it was my first time in the yacht design industry. I saw yachts being built and learned a great deal from various departments. University teaches you how to hit assignment criteria, but real industry teaches you more about client needs and practical outcomes. You learn way more in the field. That’s why I’m eager to get that hands-on experience; it’s completely different and far more valuable.

Q: What did the competition teach you about yourself as a designer?

A: It taught me to be more confident in my ideas and not be afraid to present them. Also, to accept feedback. I always try to listen and apply it when it’s relevant. That openness to critique is something I value much more now.

Q: Where does your inspiration usually come from?

A: I don’t have one specific source. I’m inspired by everything around me daily: people, places, and the environment. During the competition, I even went for a walk and just observed. Watching people enjoy the show and looking at other yachts was when the idea came to me. Looking back, I’d do everything the same way. The way the idea came to me, how I worked, it all happened naturally. I could have spent more time refining the poster, but I wouldn’t change a thing otherwise.

Q: What advice would you give this year’s candidates?

A:

1. Don’t panic. Even with a short deadline, take the time to consider the brief thoroughly. Start sketching early, which helps ideas flow.
2. You need to be open-minded and accept feedback. Ask for feedback from the judges; they’re helpful and supportive.
3. Be confident in your concept. Don’t hold back just because it’s different. Be creative but also realistic. The best ideas are bold but doable. The judges appreciate unique concepts that remain practical and sensible.
4. And most importantly, enjoy it. Take breaks if needed, go for a walk, breathe. The experience is what stays with you.

Q: What’s next for you? Are there any dream companies or studios you’d love to work with?

A: Right now, I’m doing some freelance work and looking for more opportunities, especially in interior yacht design, which I love. It’s where you can be creative while working within engineering constraints. Even if it’s not in yachts, I’d be open to an interior design studio to gain more experience.

Hearing Amel’s story is a reminder of just how much talent, determination, and creativity exist within the next generation of designers. Competitions like this don’t just reward great ideas, they open doors, build confidence and connect young professionals with the people and opportunities that really can shape their careers. As the excitement builds for this year’s event at the Southampton Boat Show, LA Marine is proud to play a part in supporting innovation and creativity, championing young talent and creating those moments that inspire and drive future superyacht designers towards their ambitions.