Faith Molaa Mwatebwe, Engine Cadet – Kenya

As an Engine Cadet I am essentially learning the ropes in the department and finding out what it takes to keep the ship running. I work with the Engine Officers and the rest of the Engine Team to really understand how the engine department works. Most of the time, you will find me in the engine room with the 3rd engineer on watch, carrying out the various jobs assigned by our watch leader. I also assist with paperwork and other clerical duties as well as learning the policies and procedures in the department and the company at large.

I love my job because I get to do what I love, so every single minute I spend down in the engine room or Engine Control room brings me joy.

What most women lack is that one opportunity to get placement at sea, not because we are incompetent or anything but because companies shy away from hiring us. I’d encourage companies to give the girl a chance, because you’d never know her truest potential and ability to work unless you give her a chance.

A couple of years ago I got some advice from one of our pioneers in the maritime industry..she told me, ‘don’t listen to the background noises’. And that’s what I’ve been living by. Countless times I’ve been told that I don’t belong in this field, that the ship, more so the engine, is no place for a woman. I didn’t listen to all this and look at where that got me. So to my fellow females looking to join this industry, I’ll tell you the same, don’t listen to the background noises..dare to dream, it might just come true.

Faith Molaa Mwatebwe, Engine Cadet – Kenya