The Conversation: Women At Sea

Kim Chakanetsa finds out what it is like to be in charge of a big sea vessel in the Philippines and South Africa.

In the traditionally male-dominated world of ocean navigation Jasmin Labarda is currently making her mark in the Philippines by navigating Technip’s flagship vessel, the Deep Blue. She first served on a tanker vessel at the age of 17 and worked her way up from being a trainee Dynamic Positioning Officer to a Second Officer at the young age of 26, and in 2011, passed the Master Mariner’s exam.

Last year Zimasa Mabela became the first black African woman to command a navy vessel in South Africa. Commander Mabela, who is in charge of a de-mining ship based in Cape Town, grew up two hours from the sea, but only saw it for the first time aged 18. A few years later she felt compelled to join the navy so she could see the world. Zimasa was recruited as a radio operator and has travelled around the world to countries including India, Canada and Uruguay.

Publicity contact: MH2