Trushna Kamble, Third Officer – India

My name is Trushna Kamble, and I am from India. I have been working in the maritime industry since 2017 and currently serve as a Third Officer. Over the years, life at sea has shaped my mindset, my confidence, and my understanding of what it truly means to take responsibility.

As a Third Officer, my day-to-day responsibilities focus mainly on navigation and the maintenance of lifesaving and firefighting equipment. I am responsible for ensuring that Life Saving Appliances (LSA) and Fire Fighting Appliances (FFA) are properly maintained and ready for use at all times. These duties require precision, consistency, and a strong sense of accountability, because safety on board depends on it.

What I enjoy most about this profession is how it feels tiring and fulfilling at the same time. The work is demanding, both physically and mentally, but there is a deep sense of satisfaction that comes with doing the job well. Every day challenges you in a different way, and that constant effort is what makes the experience meaningful.

One of the main challenges I have faced is self-induced pressure. This pressure comes from the stigma that girls cannot do this job, which often makes you feel like you need to constantly prove yourself. Carrying that weight can be exhausting, but it has also pushed me to work harder, stay focused, and trust my abilities.

If I were to advocate for any change for female seafarers, it would be simple: stop defining us based on our gender. The job does not know the gender of the person doing it. Competence, dedication, and responsibility matter far more than labels.
To women who are starting out in this industry, my advice is this: if you are even thinking of joining, half the battle is already won. Work hard, stay committed, and let your hard work speak for you.

Life at sea has also taught me that it’s never the ship that makes a good time on board, it’s always the people you sail with. I’ve been fortunate to meet some truly amazing people, and those connections have made the journey even more special.

Trushna Kamble, Third Officer – India