Hapag-Lloyd aims to promote women with ‘Shefarer’

Hapag-Lloyd (HL) has launched its ‘Shefarer’ programme to increase the proportion of women in maritime shipping in the long term. Together with partners Jebsen PTC, Anglo-Eastern Ship Management and Marlow Navigation, the shipping line aims to attract more women to onboard maritime professions and promote their development in the maritime environment.

A central component of the programme is the promotion of young talent. In future, at least 20% of all new cadet positions will be filled by women. This also applies to international training programmes, particularly for young professionals from the Philippines. Additionally, Hapag-Lloyd plans to create so-called ‘Shefarer’ ships, on which several women will work in various roles and ranks. This aims to make women onboard more visible and no longer regarded as an exception.

Furthermore, the shipping line is investing in new facilities on all its newbuildings, including separate changing rooms, showers and sanitary areas for women. According to Hapag-Lloyd, the programme has been designed to improve working conditions and create long-term career prospects at sea. The proportion of women in the crews of the shipping line currently stands at 5.7%. Four female captains sail for the company today.

www.hapag-lloyd.com