CMA CGM Launches "She Sails" to Empower Women in Maritime Careers

CMA CGM Launches “She Sails” to Empower Women in Maritime Careers

December 11, 2024 – Global shipping company cma cgm has introduced an ambitious initiative, “She Sails,” aimed at empowering women in the maritime industry and addressing the gender imbalance in seafaring careers. The program focuses on making maritime professions more appealing and accessible to women while fostering their development and retention in the industry.

Closing the Gender Gap in Maritime Careers

Women remain significantly underrepresented among seafarers, a gap that CMA CGM is determined to close. Recognizing the critical contributions women can make, “She Sails” aims to provide a supportive platform for aspiring and current female maritime professionals.

A Comprehensive Program with Three Key Pillars

The “She Sails” program is designed around three primary objectives:

1. Attraction
   • Female maritime students are offered internships for practical experience.
   • A mentoring program connects aspiring seafarers with experienced women in the field to guide them through career decisions and challenges.
2. Promotion
   • Opportunities to work on a modern, low-carbon fleet with exciting roles onboard and onshore.
   • Continuous training programs tailored to foster team spirit and professional growth.
3. Retention
   • Focused support for women to advance to higher positions, ensuring equal pay and opportunities for equal work.
   • Leadership development programs and strong measures against harassment to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment.

Voices of Inspiration

The program also highlights inspiring success stories of women seafarers within CMA CGM:

• Diana Mrsic, Second Officer and program ambassador, shared:
  “Even when people doubted me, I knew I could succeed. Women are strong, independent, and capable of achieving anything.”

• Nathalie Barbosa Barbato, Chief Officer at Mercosul Line, emphasized:
  “Being a part of the merchant navy allows me to balance the serenity of the ocean with quality time for my family. It’s a career I’m proud of.”

• Indira Isa, Chief Officer at CMA SHIPS Romania, highlighted the importance of camaraderie among women in maritime:
  “The solidarity and support network among female seafarers are powerful tools to navigate challenges.”

Open to All Aspiring Women

“She Sails” welcomes women seafarers, female maritime students, and those considering a career in this exciting industry. The program celebrates adventure, global openness, and the passion that drives maritime professionals.

How to Get Involved

Women interested in the program can contact She Sails Ambassadors at shesails@cmaships.com for more information or to apply.

Through “She Sails,” CMA CGM is taking a bold step to create a more diverse and inclusive maritime workforce, setting a benchmark for the industry’s future.