Diversity, equality and inclusion really matter…
As a company, we emphasise the importance of diversity, equality, and inclusion within our organisation. We have a diverse workforce and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees and partners. We are also affiliated with Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA), supporting female professionals in the maritime industry.
Key Points
- Berge Bulk promotes an equal and inclusive workplace through its Diversity & Inclusion Policy.
- We employ a workforce from 25 countries and almost 50% of our shore team are female.
- Our vessels operate with mixed-nationality crews, fostering a culture of inclusion.
- Berge Bulk is a corporate member of WISTA, providing female employees access to a global network and mentorship opportunities.
At Berge Bulk, we foster an equal and inclusive environment where every individual is valued and treated fairly. Our Diversity & Inclusion Policy governs our operations, with an expectation that all suppliers and partners uphold our principles.
We have a diverse workforce consisting of 2,588 colleagues from 25 different countries and a shore team comprising of nearly 50% female employees.
Mixed Nationality Crews
Many of our vessels sail with mixed-nationality crews, comprising Filipinos, Chinese, Indians, and Europeans, and we take proactive measures to promote a culture of inclusion and harmony amongst them.
We’re Signed Up To WISTA: Supporting Women in Shipping
Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) is a global organisation connecting a network of more than 3,000 female professionals from all maritime industry sectors. As corporate members, our female Berge Bulk colleagues have access to WISTA’s prestigious global network, mentorship programmes and regular events.
Berge Bulk Women
The personal journeys of two of our female staff illuminate some of the challenges and triumphs faced by women in the maritime industry.
Their experiences shed light on the importance of gender equality, inspiring us to champion diversity in every aspect of society.
Aparajita Ray
Vessel Manager
See their story
“At Berge Bulk, I’ve learned that gender equality is not just a goal — it is essential in creating a truly inclusive environment. The sense of trust and faith in my leadership skills fuelled my commitment to maintaining open dialogue and my desire to uplift those around me. By championing mentorship we can empower other women to successfully navigate any challenges, inspiring future generations of women in our industry.”
What inspired you to pursue a career in the maritime industry?
As a child, my father, a chief engineer, captivated my imagination with many delightful anecdotes that were far more than bedtime stories. Listening to him recount his experiences I developed a great sense of admiration for the maritime profession and, despite initial resistance, my parents embraced and encouraged my decision to enter the industry.
Can you share a memorable moment in your time at Berge Bulk?
One moment that remains etched in my memory was a conversation with a Master and Chief Engineer during a sign-off talk. Their unexpected words, “We would like to work on a ship under your management…” ignited a real sense of pride and purpose in me.
Can you share a significant challenge that you’ve faced as a woman in the maritime industry?
As a newly promoted Second Engineer, I anticipated scepticism and resistance due to gender stereotypes. Navigating this required a shift in mindset — I had to approach interactions with empathy and professionalism, focusing on fostering an inclusive environment and demonstrating my capabilities.
How do you think the maritime industry can better support women?
Reflecting on my own journey, I feel that mentorship is essential. I’ve benefited from supportive mentors who helped me acclimatise to my roles, and I feel that I have always been treated with utmost respect and kindness. Open dialogue and proactive management steps will enhance diversity and inclusion, and I am optimistic about the direction in which our industry is heading.
What advice would you give to women aspiring to join the industry?
Embrace passion and resilience! Build networks, stay informed, and support each other. With courage, you can overcome any challenge. Fair winds on your journey!
Nur Khalisa
Management Associate
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“For me, the maritime industry opened doors to a diverse range of opportunities. To empower more women, we need to invest in educational outreach, showcasing the achievements of successful women in maritime. My advice to aspiring women is simple: go for it! Embrace every challenge as a chance for growth.”
What inspired you to pursue a career in the maritime industry?
The maritime industry offers a wide range of career opportunities that allow me to develop diverse technical and commercial skills. Despite having a background in marine engineering, I feel privileged to have entered the commercial side of the industry.
Can you share a memorable moment in your time at Berge Bulk?
Participating in company-organised events such as go-karting has been exhilarating. Good spirited competition with colleagues made this a memorable and joyful experience.
Can you share a significant challenge that you’ve faced as a woman in the maritime industry?
Maintaining work-life balance during my shipyard internship was particularly challenging. It’s a physically and mentally demanding environment, but supportive and encouraging peers were there to help me navigate through it.
How do you think the maritime industry can better support women?
I think that investing in educational outreach programmes to encourage young women to pursue maritime careers would highlight the achievements of women in the industry — fostering an environment of empowerment and showcasing success.
What advice would you give to women aspiring to join the industry?
Go for it! Every challenge is an opportunity for growth. As Franklin D. Roosevelt aptly said, “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” Embrace the journey ahead!