Leading with confidence, breaking waves and barriers.

16/09/2024 ● MAAP ● AMOSUP

Steering Through Silence: Voices of Change

Présentée par

Captain Chrisdel Paga

Introduction

In the vast and isolated world of maritime life, young women working on cargo vessels face unique challenges, with sexual harassment being one of the most pervasive and unaddressed issues. Steering Through Silence: Voices of Change is a powerful photo essay that seeks to illuminate these hidden struggles. Through striking visuals and personal testimonies, this project reveals the resilience and strength of women seafarers who navigate both the physical seas and the turbulent waters of gender-based violence. This project aims to raise awareness and inspire action and advocates for a safer, more equitable maritime environment.

“In the vast and isolated world of maritime life, young women face unique challenges. They navigate both the physical seas and the turbulent waters of gender-based violence.”

Introduction à la narration

Creating Steering Through Silence: Voices of Change was a deeply personal journey for me as a woman officer aboard cargo vessels. Having witnessed and experienced the challenges firsthand, I felt compelled to share these stories with a larger audience. This photo essay is not just about documenting reality; it is a call to action for the maritime industry to address and eradicate sexual harassment. Sharing these stories is vital not only to honour the bravery of my fellow seafarers but also to push for real change in our industry. This photo essay is my way of shining a light on these hidden struggles and inspiring a movement towards safety and equality at sea. By amplifying these voices, I hope to spark meaningful dialogue and transformation.

Charting her own course, a woman’s journey at sea.

Crossing boundaries, the discomfort of the unwanted touch.

Lost in thought, navigating through doubt.

Starts with a simple touch and continues with further physical advances.

Education and mentoring about sexual harassment.

Empowered woman: steering towards hope for a safer and better world in the maritime industry.

Réflexions

Navigating life onboard as a woman demands courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication. The challenges are real, but so is our strength. Harassment should never be endured in silence. We are united in our commitment to change. Remember, you’re never alone. Speak up for your wellbeing, and lean on the support available. Together, we can create a safer and more empowering environment at sea. Stand firm and know you have allies by your side.

Quelle est la suite pour moi ?

Following my experiences at sea, I am driven to continue advocating for women in the maritime industry. My hope is to see a future where every seafarer feels safe and empowered and is free from harassment and discrimination. I dream of creating programmes and workshops that promote inclusivity and awareness and help to foster a culture of respect on all vessels. By sharing my story and those of others, I aim to inspire positive change and encourage more women to pursue careers in this challenging yet rewarding field.

How can ITF Youth empower seafarers to report incidents without fear? What actions would you take if you witnessed harassment on a vessel?