41 ISSUE 12 | MARCH-APRIL 2025 and perseverance in the field. However, he also highlighted the emotional challenges of being away from family, which could sometimes lead to feelings of loneliness and homesickness. Danielle, as a woman at sea, mentioned the added challenge of overcoming gender-related barriers and the need for strong camaraderie on board. She emphasized that when she felt included as part of the crew, the experience was incredibly fulfilling. The key takeaway for her was that the skills gained as a female seafarer—while challenging— have propelled her career and ensured job security. Adapting to a changing industry With automation and decarbonization transforming the maritime world, the panelists agreed: staying ahead means staying curious and flexible. Kenneth admitted, “It’s not easy to keep up with new tech. But being open to learning is the only way forward.” Yrhen encouraged young seafarers not to box themselves into one role. “Explore different paths,” he said, “whether it’s port operations, maritime law, or even the military.” Staying connected, while staying human Communication is a critical component of life at sea, especially when it comes to staying connected with family and fostering crew cohesion. While advancements like Starlink and satellite communication have made it easier to stay in touch with loved ones, the panelists noted that this shift has led to a reduction in socializing among crew members. Jomel recognized the cultural and linguistic diversity on board as potential barriers to socializing. However, he pointed out that these challenges could be overcome through thoughtful initiatives such as crew gatherings and open spaces for informal interactions. Danielle echoed this sentiment, noting that while communication with family has improved, it sometimes contributes to isolation between crew members. She suggested that fostering stronger crew connections would help improve overall morale and mental well-being on board. Valuable career advice Each panelist shared career advice that has helped them along the way. Kenneth stressed the importance of embracing the profession’s challenges, as the rewards— both personal and financial—make it all worthwhile. Jomel encouraged future seafarers to stay determined and flexible in pursuing their dreams, even when things don’t go according to plan. He emphasized the importance of setting goals and remaining resilient, while always trusting the journey. Danielle highlighted the value of mentorship, advising young seafarers to seek guidance from seasoned professionals to navigate the challenges of life at sea. Yrhen shared advice given to him early in his career: “Seafaring is not about besting others, but relating to them.” He emphasized the importance of camaraderie, particularly in creating a supportive and cohesive work environment on board. What makes a good seafarer? At the end of the day, qualities like resilience, adaptability, and genuine passion make all the difference. The panelists agreed: life at sea isn’t always easy, but if you love what you do, the tough moments become stepping stones, not obstacles. Above all, a genuine love for the profession makes it easier to navigate the demanding and sometimes stressful nature of the job. For many, being a seafarer is not just a job but a calling, and those who thrive in this industry are often those who truly care about the work they do and the impact it has on global trade and the economy. Being a seafarer isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. And for those who answer it, the rewards can be life-changing. Explore more at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQl0fJBoiTU A R T I C L E
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