18/05/2026
Message from the Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Ports Authority on the occasion of International Day for Women in Maritime (18th May 2026)
Today we pause for a moment to salute, recognise and celebrate the brave, courageous, resilient, and remarkable women who continue to shape and strengthen the maritime industry across the world, especially here in Seychelles.
As it has been observed, the dynamics of maritime, a rather male-dominated sector, has undergone significant transformation over the years. Increasingly, women are entering the field with confidence and determination, working proudly alongside their male counterparts. Whether onboard small or larger vessels such as cargo ships, tankers, cruise liners, or within port and maritime operations, women continue to demonstrate professionalism, competence, and leadership at every level.
With women being highly empowered over the past few decades and especially in the recent years, women have continued to break barriers and challenge long-standing gender stereotypes as well as gender inequality. Many women are now taking bold steps into professions once perceived as inaccessible to them. Some are even braving the sea and standing firm beside the men to sustain operational duties.
Today, women are not only contributing towards daily maritime operations, but are also occupying key leadership positions, heading important forums and sitting at the same table with men participating in high level and strategic decisions-making process within organisations to help shape the future of the industry. Seychelles has not been alienated from this evolution but has rather embraced it positively.
The growing number of women entering the maritime sector across the globe over the years represents a paradigm shift in what seemed to be regarded as a field exclusively for men. It also reflects a meaningful shift in perceptions and opportunities with a broader recognition that maritime careers are for everyone. At the Seychelles Ports Authority (SPA), we are proud to attest that women represent almost one-third of our workforce.
The traditional mindset that women should primarily undertake administrative roles is steadily changing. More women are now excelling in operational, technical, and project-related positions in maritime demonstrating exceptional professionalism, capability, and commitment proving through their dedication and expertise that they are equally capable of thriving in all areas of the industry. At SPA, we are privileged to have female employees ranging from young professionals beginning their careers to experienced staff members flaunting more than 35 years of service to the Authority.
This year’s theme: “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence”, calls for support and empowerment to bridge the gap between written rules and real-life experiences for the women. It serves as an important reminder that achieving true inclusion and that meaningful progress requires and goes beyond policies alone. It also calls upon us all to actively create supportive, inclusive and equitable working environments where women are empowered not only to enter the maritime sector, but to also grow, lead, inspire future generations, promote diversity, and ensure equal opportunities for growth and advancement within the maritime sector.
In the spirit of celebration for this important day, I would like to encourage our young women and girls who are still considering their career paths to venture in and explore the many rewarding opportunities available within the maritime industry. Your contribution, talent, and leadership are needed in this essential field as we continue to build a stronger and more inclusive maritime community.
On behalf of SPA, I extend my sincere appreciation and warmest wishes to all women working within the maritime industry. Thank you for your invaluable contribution, commitment, and service. Your dedication, resilience, and achievements continue to inspire future generations.
Happy International Day for Women in Maritime!