"Inspire others towards a more inclusive and diverse maritime future"

Mauricia Vendeyar harbors great professional ambitions and is preparing to climb the ranks to leave her mark, while inspiring future generations of Guyanese women to join the maritime industry. Her dream: to become the country's first female captain. While working towards this goal, she shares with us her daily life as a woman navigating a predominantly male environment. Interview. 
 

What was your academic background and why did you decide to join the maritime industry? 

Mauricia Vandeyar: As a young lady growing up, I always had a passion of touring the world and making changes for myself as well as Guyana. In 2022, after graduating from high school with business subjects, I was clueless about what to do next. One day my friend and I was discussing how the oil and gas industry is growing in Guyana, and it would be amazing to be a part of it and contribute to global trade and transportation. I know the first step to getting into the industry was by acquiring the Standard of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) which I did in September 2022. Captain Tulsie Bissessar, who was my lecturer, pulled me aside the last day of classes and told me he saw great potential in me, and I should take it further and do not limit myself. It would be great for myself knowing it was not normal to have females in the industry and I can help make a change in Guyana. That is why I have decided to join the maritime sector, to make a change and inspire others towards a more inclusive and diverse maritime future. 
 

How do you imagine your career in the future? What are your ambitions? 

M.V.: As a deck cadet, my ambition is to revolve around the progressing through the ranks in the maritime industry, gaining experience, and becoming a skilled and respected female officer. My goal as a deck cadet is to: Earn Officer Qualifications (CoC): Become a DPO/Third/Second officer, get the necessary sea time, training, exams to qualify as a third/second officer. After gaining experience as a third/second officer, the next step is to become a chief officer who is responsible for the vessel’s cargo operation, and second in command to the captain. Lastly, my ultimate career goal as a deck cadet is to become the first Female Guyanese Captain within Bourbon. If I reach this goal, itwill not only make a change for Guyana but will motivate future generations of female cadets to follow these footsteps. I hope to become a role model for other crew members, particularly for those who are new to the industry or may face challenges, such as being a minority on board. After reaching my goal as a Captain I intend to invest in aspiring officers and share my experience by teaching future generations of seafarers. 
 

What is your relationship like with your male colleagues on board? 

M.V.: Being the only female on board where my colleagues are male, can present unique challenges and dynamics. I have managed to adopt to the environment and act professionally. My colleagues and I have a great relationship. I have gained respect by proving that I am more than capable of doing what “men” can do. We have very respectful interaction on a day-to-day basis. 
 

Would you recommend a career in the maritime industry to young women? If so, what advice would you give them? 

M.V.: I would recommend a career in the maritime industry to young women because I believe we can all accomplish our goals once we set our mind towards it. My advice to young women now joining the Maritime Industry is to always remind yourself that you can do it regardless of the challenges you may face as well as the following: 

• Build a solid network and you'll be able to benefit from valuable support and opportunities. 
   
• Understand your rights and familiarize yourself with the industry regulations and company policies regarding equality, safety and harassment; you will be able to be empowered to stand up for yourself if necessary. 
   
• Seek Mentorship: Have someone that has experience in the maritime industry that will offer career advice and help you navigate challenges. 
   
• Cultivate Resilience 
   
• Celebrate your Achievements: Always celebrate your achievements, no matter how small it may seem. It will boost your confidence and keep you motivated in a demanding industry. 
   
• Advocate for yourself: Don’t be afraid to speak up or shy away from seeking promotions, raises, or new opportunities.