by Mia Krogslund Jørgensen, Head of People, Culture & Strategy at HAFNIA
This year, I was positively surprised to learn I had secured the No 1. spot in allaboutshipping.co.uk’s renowned Top 100 Women in Shipping list.
In my almost 19 years in shipping, I never imagined I’d be on any top of the industry list, let alone ranked as #1.
Whilst there is still so much progress to make to continue elevating under represented groups in shipping – there are so many opportunities and experiences that this industry has to offer. Making the shipping industry attractive to a wider group of professionals has been my key motivator in contributing towards these changes; alongside this being what the maritime sector needs to be able to hire the most qualified and skilled candidates – a KPI I come across in my every day as Hafnia’s Head of People, Culture, and Strategy. I believe the people of Hafnia are amongst the brightest in the industry, which means also maintaining a large focus on maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Based on what I’ve learned from my own experiences, I want to share some personal insights and reflections about promoting Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity (DIBE).
Global Differences: Acknowledging Diverse Starting Points
The shipping industry spans the globe, and women’s journeys vary significantly from country to country.
Acknowledging these differences is essential and being respectful of these differences is even more important. From a corporate level, we often strive to set a unified organizational culture – so understanding and respecting these differences while striving for universal standards of equality is a delicate balance that requires empathy and determination.
While some countries have made considerable strides in gender equality, others are just beginning.
However, these varying starting points cannot halt progress. Instead, they should motivate us to push for consistent advancements through a granular approach. Change takes time, and it’s a lesson learned the hard way, especially for us who are both ambitious and impatient.
Leaning Out: Embracing Curiosity
Staying in the same company for 12 years might seem like a path of comfort and stability, but without running the risk of sounding controversial to those settled in their roles – it’s crucial to remain curious and open to new opportunities.
According to research, men are more likely to lean out when approached with a different role opportunity, whilst women decline to know more about the role not wanting to risk their current positions. I can only recommend that when new opportunities arise – whether internal or external – don’t ignore it – even if you are not looking for a new role.
Willingness to explore something new and stepping into the unknown plays a significant role in career advancement. It’s easy to get comfortable in a familiar environment, but growth often requires venturing beyond your current boundaries. Leaning out and staying curious is not just a career strategy; it’s a mindset that encourages continuous learning and adaptation.
The Understated Role of Role Models
Similarly, the impact of having a role model cannot be overstated. Seeing someone successfully navigate their career in shipping made the industry tangible and attainable to me.
Before starting as a shipping trainee, I knew very little about the industry. However, what prompted me to apply was a role model. An acquaintance of my brother had just started an exciting career in shipping, with significant responsibility early on with the exciting prospect of being expatriated to Singapore.
Role models are not necessarily CEOs or C-suite executives. There are so many role models and ambassadors of our industry; – you’re probably one also! It’s crucial to continue discussing and promoting the excitement of the shipping industry, along with its fantastic opportunities for both women and men.
Gender and Recognition: The Double-Edged Sword
One of the most challenging aspects of climbing to career ladder is the fear that your accomplishments, especially in today’s times, might be attributed to your gender rather than your skills and hard work.
Sadly, it’s a common fear that many professional women face—a type of imposter syndrome that I admittedly often experience.
While gender diversity initiatives are crucial to furthering women’s opportunities as an underrepresented group, it’s important to remember that recognition and promotions are based on merit; otherwise, they become counterproductive.
To overcome this fear, it’s essential to believe in oneself and recognize that your place and recognition are well-deserved. It also involves advocating for a culture where achievements are acknowledged based on impact and competence, regardless of gender.
Dual Careers – and the end of Caregiving Stereotypes
The recent Mother’s Day and the upcoming Women in Maritime Day are poignant reminders of the dual roles that many parents juggle.
In dual-career families, the challenges are many. Balancing professional aspirations with family responsibilities demands exceptional time management, support systems, and often, a redefinition of traditional roles. For me, it has been a continuous negotiation between work and home, ensuring neither is compromised (although this can prove impossible at times).
As dual-career families become the norm, organizations, and society must support this arrangement for both men and women to succeed. This can include remote working arrangements, flexible hours, caregiving structures, equal parental leave entitlements, and an evolved perspective of stereotyped roles of both men and women.
Looking Towards the Future
Every day I am reminded that the shipping industry is constantly evolving, and so must we all as individuals in reaching new heights. Staying curious, building strong networks, overcoming biases, trusting ourselves and our capabilities, acknowledging global disparities, and balancing personal and professional lives are all part of this journey- but it is indeed these new challenges and opportunities, all in the dynamic environment of shipping that keeps this journey so exciting and fulfilling!
The Top 100 list to me is a symbol of the collective effort of everyone driving progress – and I reiterate my congratulations to everyone listed!
