RISING TIDE OF GENDER INCLUSION .... FROM THE CAPTAIN’S DESK

Capt. Simran Gill Dp3 Vessel “Southern Star” Thome Offshore / Shelf Subsea /M3Marine

Growing up in a family and culture where women are deeply respected, I never imagined such a term or case of 'gender inequality existed until later in life when I realized that the world has all sorts of biases, including one against women - one I could never come to terms with.

Anyone with a little introspection might easily understand how much women have to give in fostering happiness in the world around us if we didn't turn a blind eye to it.

Going back on board, the last 20 years of my seafaring career have been nothing short of a blessing, loaded with both sweet and sour experiences that have collectively shaped me into the professional I am today.

Fortunately, this journey has seen women working alongside me in all capacities, from trainees to all ranks on board and ashore, and I can stand testimony to their efforts and zeal in giving their best and excelling in their performance.

This spirit of parity greatly resonates with my current employers, Thome Offshore/Shelf Subsea and M3Marine, for whom I work as a Master onboard the highly modern Dp3 vessel “Southern Star” .

While on leave ashore, I work at my school to help educate the less fortunate and I can proudly say that my school is run by an allfemale staff who are impeccable in everything they do.

If there are any biases, I can only imagine the Sea being biased towards those who have yet to respect its glory and fury, thus as a Captain and a seafarer, I never allow any type of prejudice to seep onboard - be it against gender, nationalities, or race - and I expect the same from everyone out at sea. Growing through the ranks might be a tough lesson to learn, as you'll meet fellow 'farers who have preconceived notions about you - only negatable with your passion and commitment to your job.

For all women at sea, remember that you are torchbearers and ambassadors of the global fight against gender bias, so no matter what the circumstances, I am confident that you will prove your mettle and together can beat any skew you're put up against - and for that, you will have all my support and definitely from the entire Maritime fraternity.

My closing words are ones of gratitude to Sanjam Sahi Gupta who is doing an excellent job of assisting women in exploring seafaring as a vocation and providing those onboard a shoulder to lean on when needed.

Many of you may be unaware that she inherited her spirit of helping seafarers from her father, Capt. S S Sahi, who was a proud seafarer himself and a beacon of support for those in need of a guiding hand in finding their way safely on board - but I'll leave this to pen for another time.

Safe Sailing to you all!