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South Africa’s First Female Master Mariner: Captain Antoinette Keller | Women in Maritime
Description
What does it take to build a career at sea and rise through one of the most demanding industries in the world?
In this episode of Women in Maritime, Julia Gosling speaks with Captain Antoinette Keller, Principal Officer at the South African Maritime Safety Authority in Cape Town.
With over 30 years of experience, Antoinette shares her journey from cadet to senior leadership, navigating male-dominated crews, operational challenges, and the realities of long-term life at sea. Her perspective offers a rare look at both the opportunities and the pressures shaping modern maritime careers.
This conversation explores:
• Career progression from cadet to Master Mariner
• Life onboard as the only woman
• Safety, harassment, and industry accountability
• Mental health, isolation, and crew welfare
• The physical demands of seafaring
• Recruitment challenges and the future workforce
• Why inclusivity must become operational, not optional
This is a direct and honest discussion on leadership, resilience, and the urgent need for change across the maritime industry.
🎙️ Women in Maritime | Yachting International Radio
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