1. What motivated you to pursue a career in the maritime industry?
Since my childhood days I have been fascinated by the beauty of the sea, and always wanted the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world. Also, a family who used to sail as a profession inspired and encouraged me to become part of this always challenging, sometimes formidable and still male-dominated industry.
2. Where did you complete the training for your role?
This was at Naval State University, which is at Naval (on Biliran Island, to the west of Samar Island, in the eastern part of the Philippines), which used to be known as Biliran Province State University. So Naval is a place name, rather than a particular reference to the navy, but for sure I underwent rigorous courses in navigation and safety procedures and had a lot of hands-on experience on training vessels.
3. How did you join the Synergy Marine Group, and what has been your experience sailing with them?
I started my career as an OS with Norden, and when the ship management side became part of Synergy Marine Group I saw a continuing great opportunity and decided to stay. Sailing with Synergy has been a very positive and interesting experience, with a strong focus on safety, teamwork and professional development.
4. Please describe a typical day on board
Many people say there is no such thing, and I think they are right. Any day, at sea or in port, is one great and multifarious phenomenon, with challenges that test you and job satisfaction that rewards you. As a female AB, my everyday routine involves a mix of maintenance tasks, inspecting equipment, watchkeeping, assisting with navigation and doing my part to ensure that every operation runs smoothly, no matter what is the task, and whether we are in transit or alongside. “Female AB” just describes me. There is no job selection according to gender, and all ABs get every type of work. We are all trained, appraised and treated the same.
5. What are the challenges that face you in your role?
The challenges include the physical demands of the job (that is the main one, I think), dealing with unpredictable weather conditions and also long periods away from family and friends, which can sometimes make you feel a bit isolated.
6. How do you handle tasks that require physical strength and endurance, such as lifting heavy objects or working in challenging weather conditions?
Good health and physical fitness are very important as regards everyday safety on board ship, as are mindfulness and taking personal care. For example, when handling heavy objects I always use the proper lifting techniques, and with many things teamwork is key to guarding against injuries. In rough weather, I follow safety protocols strictly and remain vigilant.
7. What is the best thing about working at sea?
To me, the best things are the opportunity to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, the camaraderie among the crew and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges, which offer good learning as part of achieving successful voyages.
8. What is the one thing that should change to make life better on board?
I think that, for everyone, life on board can vary from time to time, according to how people’s mindset and perspective work. Overall, life at sea is good, but completing the journey to full, worldwide gender equality must be a top priority – and see my reply at 12 below – so everyone thinks the same way on that, and the ever decreasing number who favour just men at sea gets down to zero. Achieving that would have a great impact on improving and making life better, and create a harmonious relationship, on board all vessels, globally.
9. Have you faced any particular challenges as a female seafarer?
Yes, in the early days I faced a series of gender-related challenges. Many female seafarers around my age did. Sometimes they arose at home (which was certainly not the case with me), sometimes at work and sometimes both. However, I always met them with resilience and professionalism, gaining respect through hard work and strong dedication to my career.
10. Female seafarers are still comparatively scarce, but things are changing for the better. Do you agree?
I strongly agree, and I am proud to say that Synergy Marine Group is a big part of the changes. There has been a noticeable increase in initiatives, policies and opportunities aimed at promoting gender diversity and inclusion in the maritime sector. While progress is being made, there is still room for improvement, but the industry is going the right way.
11. What are some of the advantages of having women on board?
On the work side, women bring diverse perspectives and problem-solving skills, and also effective communication, to the team. On the social side, just like on shore their presence can be a catalyst for everyone getting along better, and overall this promotes a more inclusive and respectful environment.
12. What further changes do you think the maritime industry needs to make to improve gender equality and attract more women to a career in seafaring?
The industry should focus on mentorship programs, gender-sensitive policies and promoting the success stories of female seafarers. Additionally, improving facilities and addressing specific needs, and creating a more inclusive culture on board, will help attract and retain more women.
13. What are your aspirations, and where do you see yourself in five years?
I aspire to have advanced to a higher rank, five years from now. I also hope eventually to be one of the great mentors and to inspire the next generation of seafarers, especially women. I am in this for the long term.
14. What do you do when you are ashore?
I spend quality time with my family and friends, and engage in hobbies like reading, cooking and cycling. Also, as part of my improvement as a seafarer, I work on my professional development through courses and certification.
15. If you ever changed to a shore based role, what would you miss most about working at sea?
I would miss the sense of adventure, the chance to visit different countries, the close-knit community on board and the unique experience of working amid the vast and ever-changing oceans.
16. Share something interesting about yourself that we might not know.
As I have probably hinted above, I absolutely love cycling. Also, I am a dedicated furmom. This is a lady who cherishes dogs and views them as her fur kids, which I do.
17. What advice would you give to anyone considering a career at sea, and also to young female seafarers?
Just like me, youngsters might be thinking that seafaring is an exciting career. It most certainly is, but at times it can also be an intimidating job and can feel overwhelming. Be physically and mentally prepared for the hard work and also for what can be very adverse weather. Maintaining a positive attitude is also a priority. For young female seafarers, especially, believe in yourself, stay resilient and seek support from mentors and be guided, and you will be alright. More than that – you will do well. The maritime industry offers incredible opportunities, and your contribution has great value and you should always remember that.
