10/03/2023: EMC work readiness programme, Women in Maritime mentorship programme, EMC Graduate placement programme under training and skills development programme are some of EMC’s implemented programmes that have yielded successful candidates within the field of maritime.
Through facilitating partnerships with the industry players EMC has been able to unlock opportunities for more women to grow and thrive in this industry. Implementing programmes in our organisation is a necessity: not only for women but for the continued development of the industry. Gender parity in the working environment is important to ensure that the imbalances of society and positions of influence are addressed.
Two young mentees have been selected for cadetship interviews at Fairfield Chemical Carriers; Sinethemba Mcube and Sphokazi Mkhungo will continue with the mentorship program for the next two months. Both the ladies studied for a Diploma in Nautical Studies at the Durban University of Technology. In 2022 Sinethemba was selected to be part of the first EMC work readiness program with WoMaritime. In the following year, Sphokazi was selected to be part of the Women in Maritime mentorship programme. Sinethemba and Sphokazi are both currently part of the EMC Women in Maritime programme.
A huge part of the programme was placing each mentee with a mentor who is well-versed in the industry. The focus is on upskilling and capacity building for beneficiaries with relevant skills to steer their careers towards quality leadership.
“During my tertiary years I attended more conferences and maritime seminars and that is where I was exposed to other maritime occupations however my interest in being a seafarer has never been manipulated. I had seen EMC on most of my visits to maritime exhibitions and started following them on social media. I am currently part of the EMC Women in Maritime Mentorship programme” added Sphokazi.
At EMC each project implemented aligns with the strategic objective of developing a transformed Oceans economy through empowering the youth in Durban and surrounding areas.