As we celebrate the International Day for Women in Maritime, it’s important to acknowledge the pivotal role women play in shaping the future of maritime.
Providing equal opportunities for women to pursue careers in maritime professions is not just a matter of inclusivity; it is of strategic importance to seafarer recruitment at a time when global seafarer numbers are declining. The inclusion of women paves the way for a more diverse and resilient maritime workforce. Whilst most Ship Owners and Ship Managers welcome female seafarers the numbers remain as low as 2% across the global seafarer population. We need more women seafarers to inspire young females to go to sea as they make their early career choices.
Leadership is instrumental in driving change and fostering a culture of safety in the maritime industry. Women leaders bring unique perspectives, innovative approaches, and a collaborative spirit to the helm. These qualities are needed to break down longstanding challenges to safety; such as the unwillingness of the crew to speak up. Since the pandemic the role of mental wellbeing is better understood, and more is done to address issues that impact seafarers negatively. Empathetic leaders are needed to support the crew.
Our industry, rightly, faces high demands to improve conditions at sea, strengthen safety and reduce emissions. This requires bold action and the courage of one’s convictions. I have yet to meet a woman in the maritime domain lacking in either quality, and thankfully we have many women in key decision-making roles today making their mark on the key issues.
Innovation and technology are driving transformative changes in maritime safety, and women are embracing these advancements with enthusiasm at sea and designing and developing new solutions onshore. Recent years have seen a tidal shift in the acceptance and adoption of digital tools to enhance safety, improve training and reduce emissions with women leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators taking an active role.
As we commemorate the International Day for Women in Maritime, join me in celebrating the invaluable contributions of women. Whether as cadets or captains, engineers or crewing officers, superintendents or charterers, Vice Presidents or CEOs, women are shaping the sustainable future we need in maritime.
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