Elizabeth Marami made history as Kenya’s first female marine pilot.
She was born and raised in Mombasa, Kenya, and initially studied law at the University of Nairobi before changing course and spending 5 years in Alexandria, Egypt, to study navigation.
Marami knew as she grew up that she wanted to accomplish something out of the usual.
“Growing up in Mombasa, which is an island, I always saw ships sailing in and out of the harbour, but I never quite envisioned myself working on ships since I considered it a job for men only
“So, when after high school I got a scholarship in 2009 to study Nautical Technology in Egypt, I was absolutely clueless about it. But I always knew I wanted to be different, to be the first at something, and this was it,’ shw said.
Her position as a marine pilot comprises aiding vessels when they approach territorial waters, because according to legislation, vessels entering a country’s territorial seas may not proceed to the harbor without the presence of officials.
Marami was inspired to continue her aspirations after reading an article about Kate McCue, America’s first female captain of a megaton cruise ship.
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She is frequently the only female on board for up to 18 months at a period, and as in other professional situations, mutual respect and being a team player keep her and the team on good terms.
Marami founded Against the Tide, an online platform that “provides a glimpse into the experiences and travails of a female seafarer, both successful and unsuccessful career paths of these gallant women pursuing their seafaring dreams, and how they are charting their path in this profession.”
Marami is shifting the narrative and breaking down gender stereotypes in her area, and inspires women to want to follow in her footsteps.
“Looking back to where it all started with first going to college in Egypt in 2009, I’m pleased. I have seized some opportunities and I feel that the knowledge, skills and experience I have acquired over the years continue to propel me forward. Overall, I’m satisfied with my career progression,” she noted.
