Mental health professionals are raising alarms that the maritime industry risks losing future talent and leadership if it fails to eliminate barriers for women at sea. Female seafarers often contend with significant pressures, striving to demonstrate their competence while juggling family responsibilities and challenging entrenched stereotypes. Many feel the weight of representing all women onboard, which can lead to heightened stress and workplace bias, ultimately impacting their well-being and career aspirations.
To address these challenges, Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS), in collaboration with OneCare Group, has launched a Female Ambassador Programme aimed at supporting women throughout their maritime careers. Since its inception in 2024, the initiative has trained over 50 mentors and engaged with more than 100 female seafarers globally. Mariana Charalambous, Managing Director at MHSS, emphasizes the importance of ongoing support for women in the industry, aiming to expand access to mentorship.
The emotional burdens faced by female seafarers are often compounded by similar pressures experienced by their male counterparts, yet women frequently lack a sense of belonging and support onboard. This layering of challenges highlights the need for targeted, practical support to help women thrive in their careers while maintaining their well-being. As Women’s Day approaches, there is a call for specific support measures to empower women in the maritime sector.
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