My name is Deborah Martin Kileo, a Marine Engineering Technology graduate currently interning at the Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute (DMI). From the moment I began my studies at DMI in 2020, I knew I had stepped into a field that would not only challenge me but also help me grow both personally and professionally.

The maritime sector has truly shaped who I am today. It has taught me discipline, leadership, and the value of teamwork. I’ve grown more confident in my abilities and discovered career paths I never knew existed before. Each day in this field opens my eyes to new possibilities and reinforces my passion for the industry.

Being a mentee under the WOMESA Tanzania Chapter has been one of the most transformative parts of my career journey. Through mentorship, active involvement in organising events and given a chance to attend national and international conferences, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with inspiring leaders in the maritime sector who have guided me, encouraged me, and helped me gain a clearer sense of direction in my career. This experience has boosted my confidence and strengthened my professional outlook.

Thanks to WOMESA Tanzania, my fellow female seafarers and I had the incredible opportunity to meet the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez in 2024. That experience broadened my perspective on the global maritime sector and strengthened my motivation to keep working hard and contributing meaningfully to the industry.

My journey so far has been one of transformation. I started with a dream, unsure of where it would lead, but step by step and with the support of WOMESA Tanzania and the opportunities I’ve received I’ve begun to see real progress. I’ve met professionals who inspire me, learned through practical experiences, and now I see myself as part of the next generation working to shape and improve the maritime industry.

This is just the beginning, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.