Accra: Captain Georgina Jopap, a retired female captain and a Maritime Safety and Security Consultant, has highlighted significant progress in the recognition of women's contributions to the maritime industry. She spoke at a media forum hosted by the Ghana Ports and Harbour Authority (GPHA), themed 'Accelerating Action: Women Driving Change in Ghana's Maritime Industry.'
According to Ghana News Agency, Captain Jopap emphasized that the industry has become more inclusive, with institutions actively recruiting younger women and more females entering scientific and technical fields. She attributed this evolution to increased mentorship from women, parental support for daughters choosing diverse professions, and the influence of social media showcasing women's success in traditionally male-dominated sectors like maritime.
Captain Jopap noted that affirmative actions and policies have been crucial in encouraging young women to explore various career paths. She pointed out that enlightened parents now support their daughters' career choices, a contrast to previous generations where family opinions heavily influenced girls' career paths.
Encouraging young women to pursue any career they choose, Captain Jopap stated, "The only specific job for a man that women cannot do is to be a husband and a father; aside from that, any other job, we can do it." She urged women in leadership to focus on their roles rather than their gender.
Reflecting on her pioneering career, Captain Jopap recounted her own journey sparked by an affirmative action initiative in 1976, which led her to apply to the Nautical College. Despite initially lacking interest in a sea career, she embraced the opportunity to break barriers and shatter glass ceilings, gaining confidence through the process.
Captain Jopap shared her experiences working alongside male colleagues, expressing that her upbringing with male relatives prepared her to excel and withstand any potential intimidation. She disclosed that her male colleagues supported her ambitions, and the prospect of being a role model motivated her further.
Recalling the pride of being interviewed by media during her early port visits to Hamburg and America, she said the attention and expectations drove her to succeed, inspiring other young women in the process.
