June invites us to look at the sea through a different lens: to recognize those who, from a variety of roles, sustain an industry that is essential to global development. In this context, Red MAMLa highlights the testimony and career of Paula Pérez, who was recently interviewed by Edgar Espíndola on the program “A Coffee in Congress” on Colombia’s Congressional Channel.

During the interview, Paula Pérez, Coordinator of International Affairs at Colombia’s General Maritime Directorate (DIMAR), discussed the strategic role of the maritime sector in national development and the need to advance greater female inclusion within the industry.

“A maritime woman is not only someone who sails; she is also found in ports, logistics, research, and decision-making. All women who work for the sea are maritime women,” she stated, emphasizing the diversity of professional profiles that today support the maritime ecosystem.

She also highlighted the need to build greater maritime awareness within society, recognizing that the sea is a fundamental pillar of trade, sustainability, and global development. “A large part of what we consume arrives by sea. We are all connected to the ocean and have a responsibility to understand and protect it,” she said.

Likewise, she underscored the efforts of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in promoting gender equality, particularly through networks such as Red MAMLa, which were created to strengthen the training, visibility, and leadership of women in the sector. In this regard, she stressed that the challenge is not only to open doors, but also to promote education and access to decision-making positions.

The interview was part of the Maritime Women’s Month activities organized by DIMAR, providing an opportunity to showcase not only the gender perspective but also the technical contributions of women in fields such as maritime law and international relations. “It is important to show that it is possible to build a career in this sector and inspire other women to prepare themselves and take on these challenges… it is not about having one woman in the picture, but about having many more,” she noted.

In this month, when we celebrate the importance of Seafarers, Red MAMLa sees a clear challenge ahead: to continue expanding opportunities so that more women not only participate in, but also lead, the maritime development of the region. Each story like Paula Pérez’s reflects not only an individual journey but also helps pave the way for many more women to find in the sea a place that is accessible, meaningful, and full of opportunity.

Because when more voices come together, the sea ceases to be a frontier.

#ProudlyMAMLa

Pictures: “A Coffee in Congress” Program. Hosted by Edgar Espíndola.

Didn’t watch the interview? Don’t worry—you can watch it here.