Limassol, Cyprus. Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis said women are bringing vital expertise and leadership to an industry long seen as male-dominated, speaking at a maritime event in Limassol. She said greater inclusion is making the sector more innovative and better prepared for the future.
Remarks at WISTA Cyprus event
Hadjimanolis spoke at a WISTA Cyprus (Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association) gathering on Wednesday marking International Women’s Day. She said every step forward made by women carries significant weight as they continue to strengthen the profession.
Impact of women’s participation
Women in maritime bring “incredible expertise and professionalism,” she said, as well as “perspective, resilience, creativity and leadership.” Hadjimanolis added that these qualities benefit the industry as a whole by making organisations stronger, decisions better, and the sector more dynamic.
Role of WISTA Cyprus
Hadjimanolis said the progress already made was evident among attendees and added that WISTA Cyprus has played an important role by building networks, supporting mentorship, and giving women in maritime greater visibility and opportunities.
Equal opportunities and future talent
Hadjimanolis said more remains to be done, describing equal opportunities and diversity as not only a matter of fairness but also essential to the future of shipping. The sector needs talent, she said, and “talent exists everywhere, among both women and men.”
Deputy Ministry initiatives and upcoming EU-related conference
She said the Deputy Ministry of Shipping is working with international organisations, educational institutions, and industry partners to encourage more women to pursue careers in shipping, both at sea and ashore, and to help young women better understand opportunities in the sector. She added that inclusion also means ensuring women feel valued, respected, and able to grow.
Hadjimanolis also referred to an initiative under the Cyprus presidency of the Council of the EU, under which Brussels will host a conference on equal opportunities and inclusion in shipping on May 12.
What steps do you think would most effectively expand equal opportunities in the shipping sector?
