18/05/2026
Shipping moves the world and more women are helping lead the way.
Today, on the International Day for Women in Maritime, we celebrate the women helping shape the future of our industry. While women still only make up around 1% of seafarers globally, we are proud that at Oldendorff, that number is around four to five times higher - driven by long term investment in diversity initiatives, education, and career development.
“Don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t belong here. Show up and take your place,” says Phumeza Jili, 3rd Officer at Oldendorff.
While there is still work ahead of us, today is also an opportunity to reflect on the progress already made. We are proud to have achieved an equal gender split among our cadets and office colleagues, helping build a diverse talent pipeline and supporting women as they grow into long term careers and leadership positions across our industry.
“Today, women in maritime are not only carrying cargo around the world, but also a message: we belong here too. Our ambition is valid and our voice matters,” reflects Thabile Mpungose, 3rd Officer at Oldendorff.
Because competency has no gender and shipping should reflect the diversity of the communities it serves.
