The EThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC) implemented the August Women in Maritime Campaign focusing on maritime career awareness, and recognising the impeccable work done by the women in the industry are all priorities for the #Womeninmaritime23 campaign. Using EMC’s social media platforms, the succession of the campaign carried a lot more weight due to the large following in all the marketing platforms.

Every year in August at EMC, this month is used to give recognition to the women excelling in the industry and those who are navigating through this complex industry. Throughout the month of August in celebration of Women’s Month EThekwini Maritime Cluster profiled a total of 12 industry women who are working in the maritime industry and involved in various initiatives contributing towards women’s empowerment and the growth of the maritime industry.

The profiles ranged from female managing directors, newly appointed captains, legal practice, exporting, shipping, and other shore-based careers within the maritime sector. It was interesting sharing the different journeys of the females. What was more interesting was the common goal each of these females had in terms of their introduction to the industry and their desire to expand the platform for more females to flourish in this space.

These were the few highlights of the campaign. The announcement of Captain Shabalala from Transnet who was recently appointed in this new position. Then there was Ms. Nonqaba Bengu, the founder and managing director of Maritime Hub Network who is making big moves in the industry and still has bigger plans she said, “So please, keep a look out and watch this space!’’ as she continued to embark on their interesting projects. Ms. Innocentia Motau is another female trailblazing in the industry who is associated with other organizations as well as being the Managing Director of Shosholoza Operations.

The success of the campaign is all thanks to all the participants of the campaign. Thank you to each one of you who was able to partake in the #womeninmaritime23 campaign. We look forward to having more of these campaigns raising awareness in maritime.