All-Women Shipping Crew Leads Maritime Day Event in South Africa, Inspiring Future Female Mariners

In celebration of Women’s Day, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TPNA) of South Africa showcased an all-women crew leading shipping operations at the Durban, Cape Town, and Port Elizabeth ports. The crew was accompanied by 15 grade 10 girls studying maritime studies at various schools. These female pupils were given the opportunity to witness first-hand the sailing and docking of vessels at the ports, providing them with practical exposure to the maritime industry.

Phyllis Difeto, acting chief executive at TNPA, emphasized the importance of introducing maritime studies in high school curriculum to build a pipeline of future mariners. The goal is to not only benefit the port authority but also the entire maritime industry. This initiative aims to positively impact the career paths of female pupils and contribute to the growth of women in mission-critical professions within the maritime sector.

Transnet has made significant progress in promoting inclusivity and representation, with 544 women out of 1671 mariners now working in marine operations and shipping. TNPA’s executive committee currently boasts 60 percent female representation, with four out of seven South African commercial seaports being led and managed by women. This commitment to gender diversity is a step in the right direction towards achieving greater gender equality in the maritime industry.

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