MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy (MMMA) reached nearly 500 students from 16 schools through Women at the Helm: Empowering the Next Generation of Female Leaders to Navigate a Sea of Opportunities, a four-week series held every Saturday in September 2026 as part of the Academy’s 8th Foundation Day celebration and Maritime Club Initiative.
Made possible through the support of the TK Foundation, the series brought together female maritime professionals, industry leaders, educators, and students for discussions on maritime careers, leadership, and the experiences of women in the industry. Sessions were held at the MMMA Ship-In Auditorium in Dasmariñas, Cavite, on September 5, 12, 19, and 26.
The program drew participants from schools across Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Muntinlupa City, Pasay City, Pampanga, and Bataan, extending MMMA’s outreach to young women from different communities. Through talks, career orientations, and interactive question-and-answer sessions, students gained insights into opportunities within the maritime sector and the experiences of women who have pursued careers in the industry.
The speakers represented Magsaysay Maritime Corporation (Northern Marine), and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, alongside MMMA’s female cadets and alumni, offering students perspectives from both industry professionals and women who have pursued maritime education and careers.
The initiative also highlighted the importance of gender diversity and leadership development in maritime education, while raising awareness of the wide range of career opportunities available to women across the industry.
With nearly 500 students participating across four sessions, Women at the Helm served as a platform for meaningful engagement between students and female maritime professionals, helping increase awareness of maritime education and career pathways among young women.
Photo Courtesy: THE LIGHTHOUSE (MMMA)
