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Seafarers’ Magazine, No 2 Marine Road, Apapa, Lagos (2026)

01/05/2026

Why I Chose the maritime career path 🚢

There’s a specific kind of silence you only find in the middle of the ocean at 0300. It’s just the hum of the engines, the glow of the radar, and the vast, starlit expanse ahead of you. People often ask me why I chose a career that takes me away from home for months at a time. My answer is always the same: I didn’t just want a job; I wanted a life that felt like an adventure.

At sea, your gender doesn't navigate the ship—your competence does. I chose this path because I wanted to prove that a woman’s place is on the bridge, in the engine room, and in the captain’s chair. Every successful docking and every heavy weather transit I navigate reinforces a sense of grit and self-reliance that I never knew I had.

The people you work with become your second family. When you’re thousands of miles from the nearest coastline, you rely on your crew for everything. I’ve shared meals and stories with engineers from Europe, deckhands from Asia, and officers from Africa. We are a global village contained within steel hulls, working together to keep the world’s economy moving.

It’s also an incredible time to be a mariner. We aren't just "sailing" anymore; we are operating high-tech hubs. Seeing the industry shift toward sustainable shipping and watching how smart tracking tech is changing our daily operations is exhilarating. We are the pioneers of a greener, more efficient future for the planet.

The ocean has a way of putting life into perspective. It teaches you patience, discipline, and respect for nature. Every time I see the sun rise over a horizon that looks different than the day before, I know I made the right choice. I’m not just building a career; I’m living a legacy of exploration.

To the girls dreaming of the sea: The deck is waiting for you. The engine room needs your mind. The industry is changing, and there is a seat at the table—or a spot on the bridge—with your name on it.

What was the moment you knew the sea was for you? Let's talk in the comments!⚓🚢

01/05/2026

Which tech do you think will change your life on board the most?

01/05/2026

On International Worker’s Day, we don't just celebrate labor; we celebrate the essential workforce that spans the globe. Seafarers are the silent engines of prosperity, navigating challenges most cannot imagine to keep our supply chains moving.

Today, we honor your skill, your dedication, and your unwavering service. Thank you for connecting the world.

Happy Worker’s Day!

29/04/2026

Meet Kaymeris Cedeño, a fishery observer breaking barriers on the high seas!

Vessel: Refrigerated Cargo
Education: Graduated from the Metropolitan University of Science and Technology (UMECIT) in 2022.

What inspired me was seeing the great courage of my friends in this beautiful field. I told myself that I wanted to travel the world while gaining vast experience in everything related to the sea. More than just starting to dream, I needed discipline in this field—which is led by men—but we women have found strength in a way that truly inspired me.

The certificate that changed my career path the most is the one that qualifies me as an observer in the fishing industry, both nationally and internationally, on Panamanian-flagged vessels.

My work on board carries high responsibility, involving fishing regulations, the protection of different tuna species, and the utmost care regarding their status and the location of protected zones, as mandated by the organizations that combat illegal fishing. My function is to collect precise technical data for the sustainability of marine resources.

To me, visibility is of the utmost importance, as the work of a woman in a male-dominated environment is to be admired. Being able to represent your country with courage and determination makes it all the more valuable.

My greatest advice is that everything that adds to your knowledge while on board is of great importance. Allowing yourself to be guided with humility by colleagues on board who have vast experience makes the experience even more enriching.

Currently, I am in a period of steady growth in this same area, as I aspire to rise in rank to a scientific observer, advancing internationally, with the ultimate goal of working in marine biology.

25/04/2026

Meet A Second Electrical Officer. 👷🏽‍♀️

Vessel Type: Cruise
Maritime Academy: Tolani Maritime Institute, India

From a young age, I was drawn toward a career that was challenging, unconventional, and far beyond the ordinary. I always wanted to build a path few choose, and the maritime industry offered exactly that. Becoming an Electrical Officer at sea combined my technical background with the opportunity to work globally in a dynamic environment.

Without a doubt, earning my ETO Certificate of Competency was the turning point in my career. It opened doors to greater responsibilities, international opportunities, and steady progression within the maritime industry. It gave me the platform to grow from technical roles into leadership-focused positions.

Most people do not realise how versatile this role truly is. As an Electrical Officer, you are constantly moving across the vessel, from bridge systems at the top deck to critical machinery deep in the engine room, from forward spaces to aft operations. Every day demands technical knowledge, quick response, and the ability to manage multiple priorities at once.

Visibility means more than being seen, it means being recognised for competence, professionalism, and contribution. It is about earning your place through performance and setting an example that encourages the next generation to believe they belong here too.

Do not rush straight into the job alone. First understand the ship, its systems, and most importantly, its safety culture. Your first contract teaches patience, discipline, and adaptability because life onboard is completely different from shore life. Stay observant, remain humble, ask questions, and never hesitate to speak up when in doubt. Safety and learning always come first.

My next goal is to step into the role of Chief ETO on a cruise vessel and continue growing as a technical leader while mentoring others coming into the industry.

24/04/2026

Meet A Cadet: Nomode Shandre Tenor
Vessel: General Cargo vessel
Maritime Academy: South African Maritime Training Academy (SAMTRA)

I’ve always wanted a life that felt bigger than routine. The maritime industry gives me the chance to explore the world while playing a real role in global trade,being part of something constantly moving and impactful.

My STCW certifications have been key in shaping my path. They’ve given me the practical skills, safety awareness, and confidence to step into this industry with purpose, even as I continue learning.

How demanding it is mentally. As a young woman starting out, you’re pushed to grow quickly, learning to be resilient, disciplined, and independent in ways most people don’t expect.

To me, visibility is about being seen and taken seriously. As a young woman still finding my place, it means showing up, representing, and reminding others that we belong here too.

Be open to learning and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Take initiative, stay grounded, and remember that every challenge is shaping you into the officer you’re becoming.

I’m working toward becoming a qualified Third Officer. It’s a step toward greater responsibility and a personal milestone that reflects my growth, discipline, and commitment to this career.

23/04/2026

Meet A Cadet: Eze Blessing
Vessel: Training Vessel AIDA IV
Maritime Academy: School of
Maritime Studies, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Bhubaneswar, India

I was inspired to pursue a life at sea because l’ve always been drawn to adventure and exploration. The maritime industry offered a path where I could do both while also traveling the world.

As a cadet, my STCW certifications have been the most transformative part of my journey so far. They have equipped me with essential safety and survival skills needed to operate in a professional maritime environment.

Many people don’t realize how mentally demanding the job can be. In addition to the physical demands, it requires constant awareness, responsibility, and teamwork. As a cadet, you’re expected to learn quickly and adapt to real-life situations at sea.

To me, visibility means
representation and recognition. It’s about showing that women belong in the maritime industry and are capable of excelling in any role onboard.

This is my first contract, but from the few months I’ve spent onboard, I would advise that cadets stay curious and be willing to learn every day. Ask questions, take notes, build good relationships with your crew, and don’t forget to set boundaries.

I’m currently working towards gaining the sea time, knowledge, and experience needed to become a certified deck officer, and l’m committed to growing step by step.

21/04/2026

Meet A Cadet: Nathaly Tovio
Vessel: Carnival Cruise Line
Maritime Academy: International Maritime University of Panama (UMIP).

I have always been drawn to the unconventional and I love a good challenge. One of the things that motivated me was breaking barriers—in my university class, we were only three women among 50 men. I love that my work is delicate, demanding, and a constant learning experience.

I am currently in my final month of preparation to obtain my Officer’s license. This stage has been the most significant for my career, as I am focused on absorbing as much knowledge as possible to take on the responsibility of the bridge.

The sheer precision of the ship’s physics. People are often surprised by how a single RPM, one extra degree, or the movement of tons of water can change the ship’s position by a centimeter. The level of detail required in maneuvers and the weight of having so many lives under your care is truly incredible.

Visibility means being an inspiration. It is about showing up so that others who might be losing their motivation can see you and feel driven to keep pushing forward.

Be curious! Ask questions, read everything you can find, and “get your hands dirty.” My best advice is to stay proactive—don’t sleep too much, there is always something new to learn on deck!

My next step is officially becoming a Third Officer.

21/04/2026

“As a marine engineer, l've learned to love the rhythm of the waves and the hum of the engines. It's a life like no other, and I wouldn't have it any other way”- .andrea

13/04/2026

MEET AN ELECTRO -TECHNICAL OFFICER ⚓️👮‍♀️

Vessel Type: Oil and Chemical Tanker
Maritime Academy: Regional Maritime University, Accra, Ghana

From a young age, I always dreamed of becoming an electrical engineer. I looked up to several electrical engineers as my role models — their ability to design, troubleshoot, and innovate with complex systems fascinated me. However, when I discovered that I could apply those same skills and even push them further as an electrical personnel at sea, it felt like a bigger and more exciting challenge. Working on ships will allow me to go beyond what my role models achieved on land and become something greater.

Earning my full STCW Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) certification was the game-changer. It allowed me to move from cadet roles into a licensed officer position responsible for the ship’s entire electrical, electronic, and automation systems. The combination of hands-on training at RMU and my sea time improved my skills in troubleshooting voltage systems, power management, and critical alarms. It gave me confidence and opened doors to greater responsibilities much faster than I expected.

Many people ashore think the ETO role is just “fixing lights” or basic wiring. In reality, the ETO keeps the ship’s entire electrical and electronic “brain” running 24/7 on the ship . This varies from managing complex integrated automation systems, power distribution, navigation and communication equipment, safety alarms, and many other critical systems that support safe operations in all conditions. The work often involves troubleshooting issues in the middle of the night during rough weather, when reliability matters most. It is highly technical work that directly supports the safety and efficiency of the vessel and crew.

�To me, visibility means being seen and respected as a competent professional, not just “the girl on board.” It’s about more women sharing their stories so that young girls in Ghana and across Africa can see that technical maritime careers like ETO are open to them. It also means building safer, more inclusive environments where women feel supported rather than isolated. Greater visibility inspires the next generation and helps the industry move toward real diversity

Stay humble, observe everything, and ask smart questions at the right time. Your first contract is about learning, not proving you know it all. Build good relationships with the crew — especially the senior engineers and electricians who carry so much practical knowledge. Always prioritize safety, keep a positive attitude even on tough days, and document your experiences. The sea will test your resilience, but if you show eagerness to learn and reliability, you’ll earn respect quickly. And as a woman, remember: your presence already makes a difference — carry yourself with confidence.

I’m aiming to serve as ETO on a more advanced and bigger tonnage. This would involve greater responsibility for complex electrical systems and maintenance planning on larger vessels. Long-term, I hope to move into a Technical Superintendent role ashore or contribute to training the next generation of female ETOs back home.

12/04/2026

MEET A THIRD ENGINEER 👷🏽‍♀️

Vessel Type: Cruise Ship
Maritime Academy: Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and technology ( ZSCMST)

It started with a simple dream to help my family and build a better future. I didn’t fully understand how challenging this path would be, but I was willing to take the risk. Along the way, that dream grew into something deeper: a purpose to prove that even as a woman, I have a place in this industry.

Being selected as one of the participants from the Philippines in the 2022 Global Onboard Training Program in South Korea had opened many doors of opportunity for me, including my current company-Holland America Line-that gave their full trust to an engine cadette applicant-in the days where I have nothing yet to offer.

When people find out that I’m working on a cruise ship, they are always quick to assume that I’m working at the front desk or in the kitchen, I presume, due to my stature. They didn’t imagine a small woman doing dirty and hard jobs in the engine room, for it is mostly associated with men. Hence, they’re always in awe when they find out.

For me, visibility means being seen, heard, and recognized for what we can do. As a woman in a male-dominated field, it’s about breaking stereotypes and showing that we are just as capable. It’s not only about representation, it’s about making space for others to follow.

Stay humble and stay curious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes, for all of it is a part of learning. There will be tough days, but don’t let them define you. Just keep showing up, do your job well, and trust the process.

I’m working toward my next rank, one step at a time. No shortcuts just continuous learning, growth, and consistency. I believe that with patience and hard work, I’ll get there.

Featuring: Ceri Bucoy Jobo

11/04/2026

Career Spotlight: MEET A JUNIOR OFFICER

My name is Victoria Tibila and I am currently a Junior Officer, having gained experience on both container and bulk carrier vessels. I received my training at the Regional Maritime University, where the foundation of my maritime journey began.

For me, choosing a life at sea was about stepping into the unknown and daring to be different. I didn’t want a predictable path. I get asked often why I chose this career when I grew up in an area with no sea and I laugh and say I didn’t want a path that was predictable. The opportunity to work, learn, experience different cultures, and work in a dynamic, challenging environment inspired me to choose the maritime path. Over time, the sea has shaped my resilience and pushed me to become more confident and capable in ways I never expected.

A defining part of my journey right now is working towards completing my STCW certifications. This stage represents growth and preparation, building the knowledge, discipline, and readiness required to fully step into the demands of a seafarer. I’ve appreciated that every milestone in maritime is earned through consistency and determination.

One thing that often surprises people ashore is the level of responsibility we carry, even at the cadet level. During my cadetship I was not there simply to observe, I was actively contributing to the safe and efficient running of the vessel like participating in mooring operations, maintenance tasks, watchkeeping duties, safety drills, and ensuring compliance with maritime regulations.
Beyond this, there’s also the mental strength required in adapting to long periods away from home, working under pressure, and learning to thrive in an environment that is constantly changing.

To me, visibility in maritime goes beyond just being seen. It’s about being recognized, heard, and respected. As a woman in this industry, visibility means showing up confidently in spaces where we are still underrepresented and proving through competence and consistency that we belong. It’s also about creating a path for others, so the next generation of women can step into this industry with even more confidence and fewer barriers.

For any cadet going on their first contract, my advice is simple stay curious, stay humble but don’t be afraid to speak up in any situation that makes you uncomfortable and be willing to learn every single day. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and don’t let mistakes define you because they are part of the process. Focus on your own growth, build strong relationships onboard, and most importantly, believe in your place there, even before others fully recognize it.

At the moment, I am working towards completing my STCW certifications and progressing to obtain my Certificate of Competency (CoC), which is the next major milestone in my career. This journey represents not just advancement in rank, but a continuous commitment to growth, responsibility, and excellence. My long term goal is to rise through the ranks while becoming a confident and competent officer who leads with both skill and integrity.

Seafarers’ Magazine

01/05/2026

01/05/2026

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29/04/2026

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24/04/2026

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