17/05/2022
Women are an integral part of the maritime workforce, contributing to the success of shipping lines, ports, onshore services, and more.
On the occasion of the International Day for Women in Maritime (18th of May 2022), Vessconn Maritime is delighted to share with you the interview with Julia Schreiber, (29 years old from Germany), currently volunteering as Second Officer onboard the world’s largest civilian hospital ship, the Global Mercy™.
Julia: Working onboard the Global Mercy gives me the opportunity to bring my skills and knowledge to use for a good purpose while also learning a lot and meeting people from all over the world. Every crew member is needed and appreciated, regardless of heritage or gender. Together we bring hope and healing to Africa.
Vessconn: How would you describe yourself?
Julia: I am ambitious and have a positive attitude. I like to travel, and to meet people. I always try to see how far I can get. Believe in yourself. Just keep going.
Vessconn: Tell us about your role as a Second Officer on board Mercy Ships.
Julia: I’m fortunate enough that I get to experience all kinds of specializations within the deck department. I started as a Life-Saving Appliance Officer, then was a Firefighting Officer and now, I serve as Safety and Training Officer. This role is mainly to ensure the safety of all crew on the vessel. I have lots of meetings with the captain, and in that way, I’m the link between him and the other officers.
Vessconn: How did you enter the maritime industry?
Julia: My father and uncles were working on cargo ships. I was used to the industry, so I started to look into it, and I discovered that it included travel and meeting people. That excited me. I was raised with the mindset that everything is possible. I didn’t experience any limit on what I would be able to do.
Vessconn: What do you want to achieve on board?
Julia: I want to make the ship a safe home for everyone—that when I leave, that I feel that I contributed to the safety on board and left a positive mark. And I would like for myself to personally grow. We are a faith-based organization. We’re not only here to work; it’s about the community. I want to go home with a stronger faith—a stronger relationship with God.
Vessconn: What would your message be for the ladies who would like to make their career in the maritime industry as an officer or as a volunteer?
Julia: Go for it! Women are needed and welcomed on board in every role. Volunteering on board as a seafarer gives you the opportunity to contribute and improve your maritime skills and at the same time leave a positive mark on the world. Everyone can do that, no matter what gender!
May 2022
