In the bustling city of Taguig, Philippines, 29-year-old Rosel Cañas Galano grew up as the eldest of four siblings. With a father who was once a seafarer and a mother who worked as a dressmaker, Rosel was no stranger to hard work and responsibility. She never dreamed of becoming a seafarer. In fact, life at sea was far from the future she had envisioned. 

Rosel’s early life took an unexpected turn when her father fell ill and lost his job, forcing Rosel to step up as the family’s breadwinner. She found a lifeline, however, in the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA) Cadet Program, which opened doors to the maritime industry. 

“Before I became an NSA scholar, I was a chemical engineering student who couldn’t finish her studies because my father got sick and lost his job. I became the breadwinner of the family at an early age,” Rosel told Maritime Fairtrade in an interview. 

“To be honest, I did not imagine myself becoming a seafarer someday. Pursuing a career at sea was never an option for me. Due to financial problems, I couldn’t pursue my dream career, but the NSA Cadet Program was the best option to complete my degree without spending too much,” said Rosel. 

Little did she know, this choice would launch her into a world dominated by men, where she would rise through the ranks and prove her worth as a seafarer. 

Breaking stereotypes at sea 

Starting her maritime journey was not easy. Rosel faced skepticism from those around her, some doubting whether she would succeed in such a male-dominated industry. 

“I experienced discrimination from the people around me. At first, I was affected by their judgment, but I eventually got used to it. So long as I have my loved ones behind me, I’m all good. I am also grateful to my company, which continuously empowers women like me in this male-dominated industry,” she said. 

The maritime industry has evolved significantly since Rosel began her career.

“There are international organizations that support and protect women seafarers,” she noted. “Some shipping companies are promoting gender equality, and female seafarers are finally being recognized.” 

However, the road to inclusivity is still a work in progress. “Discrimination still exists, but I’ve learned to confront those who try to bring me down,” Rosel emphasized. 

In one notable incident, a chief engineer refused to let her assist with engineering jobs simply because of her gender. 

“Despite my efforts to prove myself, he was close-minded about the situation. He did not want me to assist with engineering tasks because he believed I would not succeed as an engineer, and allowing me to do those tasks would only be a waste of time and effort,” Rosel recalled. 

“Fortunately, my colleagues supported me through it, and I was able to overcome that challenge,” she added. 

Rosel and her male crew members share a moment of camaraderie, capturing a group photo.

Women’s unique challenges 

As a woman at sea, Rosel has faced challenges that her male counterparts do not encounter. “One of the common struggles for women is dealing with menstrual pain, which can affect mood and performance,” she shared candidly. 

Despite this, she remains focused on her duties, ensuring that her physical discomfort never hinders her performance. “If the pain becomes intolerable, I inform my superiors to avoid misunderstandings,” she said. 

Rosel’s resilience is reflected in her six years of experience as a seafarer. She described those years as a journey filled with challenges, but also with moments of personal and professional growth. 

Her proudest achievement? “I was promoted to third engineer, a role I worked hard for,” said Rosel, who is currently on board the Clipper Orion, an LPG tanker ship built in 2008 and sailing under the flag of Norway. 

“I’m satisfied with my progress, and I’m confident there are more milestones ahead,” she added. 

Staying connected and maintaining mental health 

Life at sea can be isolating, but Rosel is fortunate to be part of a company that provides unlimited internet access onboard. This allows her to stay connected with family and friends, a critical factor in maintaining her emotional and mental well-being. 

“Fortunately, we are provided with unlimited internet connection onboard. Hence, I can still communicate with my loved ones through messages, especially when I feel homesick or emotionally and mentally tired,” said Rosel. 

Maintaining mental health during long voyages is crucial for seafarers, and Rosel and her crew find ways to stay active and connected. 

“We often organize social activities like movie nights, basketball games, swimming, and karaoke,” she shared. 

These activities provide a necessary outlet for stress and help build camaraderie among the crew on board. 

Rosel Cañas Galano.

Advocating for more support 

Although Rosel believed that there are enough support systems in place for women in the maritime industry, she recognized that many female seafarers are unaware of these resources. 

“The support system is there, but it’s not widely known,” she said. “Companies should promote these organizations so women know where to turn when facing gender-related challenges at sea.” 

Rosel said the industry can do more to encourage women to pursue seafaring careers by highlighting the success stories of women like herself. 

“Recognize women who have made exceptional achievements,” she suggested. “Give them a platform to share their stories and show others that while it’s not easy, it’s possible.” 

Looking ahead 

As she continues her career at sea, Rosel remains a strong advocate for creating more inclusive and supportive environments for women. 

Asked what advice she would give to maritime companies to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women, Rosel said: “Maritime companies should implement policies that protect women in the workplace and provide a designated person where women can raise their concerns while feeling safe and not judged for speaking out.” 

Rosel’s journey from a young woman stepping into a challenging role to becoming a successful third engineer serves as a powerful example of resilience, determination, and breaking barriers. 

Her story inspires other women, showing them that they too can forge their own paths in the maritime industry and that they have a rightful place in the sector. 

“It’s not easy, but it’s completely possible,” Rosel concluded. 

All photos credit: Rosel Cañas Galano

Top photo: Rosel Cañas Galano.