"She sails" program: Promoting diversity and strengthening the role of women on board ships

At CMA CGM, our greatest asset, and the one we rely on the most, is our staff members and, amongst them, our seafarers. However women are not sufficiently represented in our current pool of seafarers, and this needs to change. We have decided to launch a new program aimed at making seafaring careers more appealing to women: “She sails", empowering women at sea.

The objective is to answer career and recruitment questions, highlight the opportunities that the CMA CGM Group can offer to women who are interested in joining us, and showcase the success stories of the women seafarers in our Group. 

Découvrez en images Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President of Assets & Operations chez CMA CGM qui met en lumière le programme « She sails ».

What is the "She sails" program?

“She sails” aims at developing the attractiveness and retention of female seafarers within our maritime workforce.

It rests on 3 pillars:

  • Attraction: Are you studying or interested in a career in the maritime sector? We create internship opportunities for female students during their maritime education to offer practical experience. You can also take advantage of a mentoring program, which allows you to team up with an experienced woman seafarer.  Get guidance on career paths, challenges, and personal development.
  • Promotion: When you join CMA CGM, you'll be able to work on a modern, low-carbon fleet, committed to biodiversity. You'll have access to exciting, stimulating jobs, and a team spirit, on shore and on board. We offer ongoing training to all our seafarers, as well as an active listening of their needs.
  • Retention: We encourage women to apply for higher positions, provide equal growth opportunities, and of course, equal pay for equal work. The safety of our crew, the protection against harassment are our priorities. You can also benefit from leadership development programs and training on management skills.
Dajana MRSIC, Ambassador, CMA SHIPS Croatia, 2nd Officer

Since I started Maritime High school, I knew that one day I will be an Officer. Today, I’m an Officer, I'm a woman on a container ship. Even when a lot of people were telling me that I will not make it, that this is a man's work, I knew that I will make it. I’m a woman, I can achieve anything I want. I can make people change their mind. For women onboard, be prepared to work a lot and show that we deserve this. We are strong, independent, and brave.

Dajana MRSIC, Ambassador, CMA SHIPS Croatia, 2nd Officer

For who?

“She sails” is dedicated to all women seafarers, all female students engaged in maritime studies and to all those who are moving towards a professional career based on adventure, openness to the world and passion.

Nathalie BARBOSA BARBATO, Ambassador, Mercosul Line, Chief Officer

When I discovered the merchant navy by chance, I was enchanted by the possibility of combining the tranquility that this huge ocean gives to me with being able to really be present for my family during my time off and doing a job that I’m proud of.

Nathalie BARBOSA BARBATO, Ambassador, Mercosul Line, Chief Officer

Interested in “She sails”?

Are you interested in our program and would like more information? Want to join us? Don't hesitate to contact us and talk to our She sails ambassadors: shesails@cmaships.com.

Indira ISA, Ambassador, CMA SHIPS Romania, Chief Officer

One thing that many people may not know about my job as a woman seafarer is the unique camaraderie and support network that often develops among women in the maritime industry. This solidarity can be a powerful source of inspiration and motivation in a frequently challenging work environment, helping to face the challenges and triumphs encountered.

Indira ISA, Ambassador, CMA SHIPS Romania, Chief Officer