International Day for Women in Maritime 2023

The International Day for Women in Maritime is an opportunity to recognise the hard work and contribution of women globally and reflect on the progress made by the industry. But above all, what can be achieved in the future with the combined effort of everyone, from companies to governments, operating in the sector.

The achievements of women in maritime have paved the way for a shift in attitudes and policies which will create opportunities for the next generation of both offshore and onshore workers. Mintra is delighted to be able to share the stories of two of our own team members who have experienced life on the sea first hand.

“I strongly believe that the industry has come a long way in the past 10 years but there is still plenty of work to be done.“

Jorunn Eldøy, Maritime Sales Director at Mintra

“When it comes to the topic of Women in Maritime, I have been there and lived it. Both offshore and in shipping. I strongly believe that the industry has come a long way in the past 10 years but there is still plenty of work to be done. This is why I am passionate about the work undertaken by the Women's International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA). Through my appointment to the Board of WISTA Netherlands, I can be part of the solution and ensure that a career in maritime for women is not about sacrifices but opportunities.

“I am a mother of two daughters who I hope will be able to enter the career of their choice, whatever it may be, without having to tackle some of the issues which have historically plagued women in maritime. The number of female captains and deck officers is still not significant but with a new generation of women who are driving forward change, I do believe that this gap is going to reduce. Especially, as we are starting to see the impact of digitalisation in shipping.

I believe that the new solutions and ways of working will make maritime a more attractive prospect for women. There is a lot of work to be done but the progress of the past decade has fuelled unprecedented change in the industry and I hope these synergies will continue to fuel change.”

“The experience of life at sea is like no other. I would be lying if I said that I do not miss the family feeling of being part of a crew of 40 or 50 people on board a vessel. The industry is a very close-knit one and I used to call the crew my second family.

"My father was a sailor, so I guess it is in my blood. Although I decided it was time to return to shore, I have been lucky to retain close links to the industry. In my current role and by being a member of WISTA Norway I can advocate for the rights of women in maritime from dry land.

“We can see the life in maritime for women changing year after year as it will continue to do with the support of everyone in the sector. We need everyone offshore or onshore to feel supported and heard.”