To mark International Women’s Day in Maritime (18 May), CSN hosted an exclusive, high-level debate focused on this year’s global theme: “Accelerate Action.”

Moving beyond the traditional conversations surrounding diversity, the debate brought together five influential female leaders to discuss the structural changes, digital shifts, and leadership mandates required to drive genuine equity across the global shipping industry.

The Voices of Leadership

The panel, moderated by Adonis Violaris, featured a powerhouse line-up of executives who are actively redefining the maritime landscape:

• Julia Paczkowska, Group Managing Director, Österreichischer Lloyd Seereederei

• Maria Theodosiou, Managing Director, Genpro

• Martina Meinders, Managing Director, Marin Shipmanagement

• Barbara Loyal, Co-Owner & Director, ESM Esmeralda Shipmanagement

• Monica Potsou, Global HR Director, Intercontinental Ship Management Limited

Accelerating Action: From the Boardroom to the Engine Room

The 60-minute debate, filmed at the Delta RestoBar in Limassol Marina, tackled the most pressing issues facing the sector today. The discussion was divided into critical thematic pillars that reflect the complexity of modern shipping.

1. The Leadership Vanguard The panel explored why getting women “through the door” is no longer enough. The focus has shifted to placing women at the helm. Julia Paczkowska discussion points included how to dismantle systemic barriers to executive board roles and strategies for moving women from middle management into heavy operational leadership.

2. Digital Transformation & AI As the maritime sector undergoes a digital revolution, Maria Theodosiou and Barbara Loyal discussed how AI-driven logistics and automated operations are creating new entry points for women. The session highlighted the need for inclusive training to ensure female seafarers are at the forefront of the high-tech transition.

3. Safety by Design & Geopolitical Risk In a candid segment, Martina Meinders and Barbara Loyal addressed the physical realities of life at sea, from inclusive PPE and medical facilities to the welfare and repatriation of crews caught in high-risk geopolitical conflict zones, such as the Strait of Hormuz.

4. Mentorship vs. Sponsorship A key takeaway from the debate was the distinction between guiding talent and actively advocating for it. Julia Paczkowska and Monica Potsou emphasised that “sponsorship”  where senior leaders use their influence to secure promotions for women is the true catalyst for structural change.

5. The Green Transition With the IMO 2030 and 2050 targets looming, the panel discussed how women are leading complex environmental projects and driving sustainable procurement, ensuring that the “Green Transition” is also a “Diverse Transition.”

The Final Mandate

The session concluded with a powerful “lightning round,” where each leader proposed one industry-wide mandate to guarantee gender equity in maritime leadership by 2030. These mandates serve as a roadmap for any organisation serious about staying competitive in a modern global market.

“Accelerating action requires more than just good intentions; it demands structural changes, active sponsorship, and decisive leadership.” — Adonis Violaris

Watch the Full Debate

We invite our readers and industry colleagues to watch the full video of this insightful discussion. Gain a deeper understanding of the strategies these leaders are using to navigate the next horizon of maritime excellence.

[Link to Video: International Women’s Day in Maritime – Special CSN Debate]

CSN extends its sincere thanks to the participants for their candour and leadership, and to the Delta RestoBar for hosting this important industry event.