Breaking the glass ceiling in the maritime sector requires a wide range of skills, including strong leadership capabilities. This is precisely the focus of the Women’s Leadership and Empowerment (WLE) training course, commissioned by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and developed by the World Maritime University (WMU).
Held in a hybrid format, with five remote days and five in-person days at WMU in Malmö, Sweden, (6-10 October) the course brought together 13 women from developing countries sponsored by the IMO, along with two additional private sector participants sponsored by the Women's International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA International) and two WMU PhD students.
The programme is designed to cultivate confident, capable leaders who can navigate complex maritime challenges, motivate their teams, and foster innovative solutions across the industry.
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The WLE course covers a variety of modules, including critical thinking, gender mainstreaming, strategic thinking, entrepreneurship, and leadership. But what sets this course apart is its integrated approach, blending technical project management training with the development of interpersonal and managerial skills. Collaborative learning and group activities are central to the programme, enabling participants to translate theoretical concepts into practical applications.
This initiative supports gender equality and empowerment efforts in maritime, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality).
Looking ahead, these women will carry the valuable lessons learned back to their home countries, inspiring positive change and innovation in the maritime sector. Their experience also reinforces a powerful truth: they belong in this industry and are key drivers of its future.
