My name is Mayasa Omary Mzandy. I joined maritime profession in 2007. Being a seafarer is a job I truly loved from the bottom of my heart, and I was also inspired by my late uncle, Mr. Alfani Manyopo.

The first ship I worked on was Sepideh of the Mega Speed Line Company, which used to operate between Dar es Salaam, Unguja, Pemba, and Tanga. I also worked with the Seagull Sea Transport Company on ships such as Seagull, Skagit, and MV Wete, which was a cargo ship.

As with any profession, seafaring has its challenges. I once experienced a major challenge in 2012 when the MV Skagit sank, an accident that claimed the lives of some passengers and crew members. I thank God for saving me and helping me survive that tragic event. In 2015, I was employed by Tanzania, Electrical, Mechanical and Electronics Services Agency (TEMESA) as the captain of the MV Mafanikio ferry, which operates between Msemo and Msangamkuu in Mtwara Region.

I am proud of my job and I love it because it has empowered me to be a brave woman. I’ve worked on different vessels and gained more experience, enabling me to lead an independent life without depending on anyone.

My message to young women is not to hesitate or fear joining the maritime profession. It is a job just like any other, and challenges exist even in office jobs. For example, I faced the challenge of a ship sinking, but I was not afraid. I thanked God and started again, and to this day, I am still working.