MARITIME SECTOR
Udara Cumaratunga
BREAKING BARRIERS TOGETHER
Diversity, inclusion and mentoring are vital to shaping the maritime sector
Factors transforming shipping and ports in Sri Lanka
The sector has experienced upheaval in recent years due to the twin impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical volatility.
The landscape today
This has led to a rapid transformation where innovation and automation are reshaping operations, enhancing efficiency and responding to the evolving demands of global trade.
Adapting to technology in port operations
Over the years, the Sri Lankan port sector has taken giant strides in automation and digitalisation.
An example of progress
The introduction of the online delivery advice process for import container clearance during the pandemic, which transformed a decade long paper-based process.
Sri Lanka’s position as a maritime hub in South Asia
The country’s strategic geographical location has positioned the Port of Colombo as a significant maritime hub.
The talent driving this transformation
A variety of operators collaborate to strengthen its status and enhance the services offered, contributing to the growth and development of the region’s maritime sector.
Balancing multiple challenges
It’s important to navigate the challenges of balancing, and overseeing commercial, marketing and sustainability efforts in a new sector.
How this can be achieved
I am supported by a team of experts and guided by management, which assists me in achieving our objectives.
Role of women in the maritime sector
In recent years, women have excelled in unconventional roles and leadership positions within a male dominated sector.
Support for gender equality
Men have increasingly become advocates for gender equality in the workplace.
Challenges faced by women
The main challenge is the stigma surrounding women working in the maritime sector.
Means to address this
Raising awareness at school level to inspire young girls to explore career opportunities and highlight the benefits presented by the maritime sector for the next generation of female leaders.
Promoting diversity and inclusion for women in leadership roles
Appointments of the first female engineer, health and safety officer, and deputy general manager, at the organisation I’m affiliated to reflect a commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Professional support
I receive ongoing support and encouragement as the first female president of the Sri Lanka-Australia-New Zealand Business Council (SLANZBC).
Advice to young women building careers in the maritime sector
Opportunities in the sector are limitless and based on capabilities over gender.
The way forward
As individuals, we must be courageous and take risks, explore new possibilities and embrace continuous learning, to unlock our full potential and drive meaningful change.
Opportunities for women in leadership roles
The possibilities are endless – many women have paved the way by taking on leadership roles in companies and industry organisations, leaving it to us to shape our paths to the top.
Mentoring women to succeed in male dominated sectors
My mantra revolves around continuous learning, self-confidence, visualising success and facing challenges head-on.
Inspiring others
I actively share this philosophy along with success stories of women who have made an impact to inspire others.
Collaboration
I collaborate with industry associations to promote opportunities for women in the maritime sector, emphasising the importance of strong leadership in driving positive change.
Role of industry associationsin promoting gender equality
Being appointed the first female president of the SLANZBC by a group of companies was encouraging, and a powerful affirmation that women can lead and deserve leadership roles.
Far-reaching impacts
I hope other organisations draw inspiration from this bold move and appoint more women to leadership positions.
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