Women in Breakbulk Middle East Members

ABDULAZEEZ ABDURAHEEM

Sales Executive ALSADIK AHMED ABOUD BAABOUD SHIPPING CO.

Good to see all are taking part in every field and don't look back, please move on

Anita Harle

Global Tender Manager Blue Water Shipping

When you can focus on the big picture, you remember what you enjoy about your work. 

Anna Agostinelli

Director Earth Trade Exports

It’s amazing and so inspiring to see women defying the norms in this industry. Let’s keep shattering the ceilings

Anna Lee

Director of Strategic Development LGA Group

Certainly! Here's a concise and motivational piece of advice for women

Ahoy, ladies! Steer your ship with confidence—don’t let rough seas or old-school attitudes throw you off course. The maritime world is changing, and you’re at the helm of that transformation. Stay seaworthy, keep your compass true, and don’t forget to enjoy the voyage. Fair winds and following seas!

BAIDA NAZAR

PRICING MANAGER MERMAN SHIPPING LLC

Own Your expertise.
Build a strong network
Advocate yourself
Handle bias with strategy
find work life balance
Lead with Authenticity

Deniz Gezgin

CBDO CONCEPTUM LOGISTICS GROUP

Craft your own definition of success, pursue it through your unique journey, and design a life that fills you with pride.

Divya Sreekumar

Business and Marketing Manager at RAK Ports RAK PORTS

[email protected]

Women in business must own their expertise and authority. It’s not enough to be in the room—you have to ensure your presence is felt. Speak with confidence, back your ideas with data, and never let anyone underestimate your contributions. Negotiation is key in every aspect of your career, whether it’s securing a deal, increasing your salary, or establishing fair contract terms. Men rarely hesitate to ask for more, and neither should you.

Building strategic relationships is just as important as expertise. Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts but about forming alliances with decision-makers, mentors, and peers who challenge and uplift you. The right connections can open doors that talent alone cannot. At the same time, resilience is everything. You will face challenges, biases, and setbacks, but your ability to adapt and push forward will set you apart. Stay focused on the long game, keep learning, and never let anyone dictate your limits.

Emma Nash

Managing Director Turkiye , Business Development Manager UK Tuscor Lloyds UK Ltd

Anything is possible! More and more women are choosing a career in logistics from operational to Director level. I am confident this will grow even further in the future. Take risks , share ideas and embrace new challenges

FEDERICA MONTARESI

Commissario Straordinario AUTORITA' DI SISTEMA PORTUALE DEL MAR LIGURE ORIENTALE

Fare e promuovere innovazione, implica la condivisione di idee, di informazioni, di esperienze, di problematiche, perchè non si puo' innovare senza condividere.

Franziska Inman

Global Commercial Director Blue Water Shipping

Believe in your abilities and don't be afraid to ask! 

Iana Maksimuk

Chief Operating Officer AFS LOGISTICS CONSULTANCY FZCO

Logistics is a multitask, so women are the best to do it

Jaeda Schmidt

Industrial Projects DHL

Don't be afraid to embrace your authentic self while working in a male dominated industry. It is important to stay resilient and true to yourself. Build a community that can relate to you and support you throughout your career.

Kattya Distefano

CEO and Founder Kattya & Co.

Be brave and bold - when you say yes to you the world moves better

Lally Fernando

Business Development Executive Consol Solutions

[email protected]

Liana Kouimtzi

Commercial Manager GAC Group Holdings Ltd.

“In all things, give thanks.” True happiness doesn’t stem from having everything we desire; it comes from valuing what we already possess, acknowledging the good things that came our way. Have faith that everything unfolds for a reason.

Lizzie Ma

Overseas Procurement AW-TRANS (QINGDAO) SUPPLY CHAIN CO,.LTD

Think Big, Try More.

Lopa Sheth

Founder Meraki Shipping DMCC

Together, let's empower, educate, and support one another as we ascend the ranks of the maritime industry. We will cultivate a dynamic work culture that embraces collaboration and understanding, reinforcing that we are one cohesive team. No matter our roles or perspectives, we are united in our pursuit of a shared goal, and together, we will achieve greatness.

Lupita Almuhana

Founder Stressie

Melis Sumer

Sales Manager heyport GmbH

[email protected]

In today’s fast-paced maritime industry, port call digitalization is no longer optional—it’s essential. By leveraging real-time data, automation, and data-driven insights, port operators can enhance efficiency, reduce turnaround times, and cut operational costs.

Rebecca Owusu-Asamoah

Marine and Energy Solutions Manager Sealand Shipping and Inland Services Limited

True success is not just about gaining recognition, but is also deeply rooted in the relationships we nurture. Coming together and strengthening our network enables us to grow, support one another, and remain empowered in our pursuit of excellence. Together, we inspire and drive each other forward.

Rehana Shamsudeen

CR Controller DP WORLD PORT AND TERMINALS

[email protected]

The maritime industry is evolving, and more opportunities are opening up for women. With the right mindset, skills, and support, you can build a successful and fulfilling career at sea or ashore. Keep pushing boundaries!

Never stop learning, never stop growing.

The horizon is wide, and the sea is yours to conquer. Keep going. Keep growing. Keep making waves.

Sahana S B

Business Development - Projects Broekman Logistics India Projects Pvt Ltd

Let your knowledge and expertise do the talking. Prove your value through results.

Saliha Khemissi

Operations Manager Sea Sands Shipping

Break bulk can be tough and filled with its own unique set of challenges, like many industries. Embrace resilience and patience when problems arise. Mistakes may happen, but learning from them and adjusting will help you become more effective in the long run.

Sarah Haidar

Director of Projects Portia DWC

Association: WISTA UAE

Shama Khanduja

Network Manager One World One Network

[email protected]

Be yourself!
Learn to prioritise!
Saying No is crucial!
Always strive to learn n enjoy !😊

Sophie Diaz

Project Development Director LGA group

In a male-dominated industry, confidence is a key. The voice of women in maritime should be heard. Active participation in workshops and discussions can highlight the impact that we bring and our vision

Susmitha Soman

Key Account Manager deugro

Be independent, stay strong, we are equally important, and we can do wonder for the betterment of ourselves, society and the world. Woman is a universal phenomenon and acting in different role as a daughter, wife and worker, we are excelling day by day, lets keep the momentum on and change the world. Would like to see Woman empowerment is become a big topic and action where all are agreeing upon. Love you all beautiful woman.

TUNA HAZAR AVCI

CEO & FOUNDER LOGIFEM SOCIETY NETWORK

Vandana Solanki

Manager Commercial Breakbulk Victore Ships Pvt Ltd

[email protected]

To all the women in the maritime, logistics, and breakbulk industry, my advice is simple: own your expertise, embrace challenges, and never shy away from leadership opportunities.

Build your network, continuously learn, and don’t hesitate to speak up and take space at the table. Resilience, confidence, and adaptability will be your strongest assets.

Wen Chen

Head of Oil & Gas, Eastern Hemisphere Blue Water Shipping

Women in Breakbulk Middle East: Respect, Culture, and Growth in Blue Water Shipping
Wen Chen, Category Head of Oil & Gas Eastern Hemisphere, Blue Water Shipping

The breakbulk and project cargo industry has traditionally been male dominated, but times are changing. More women are stepping into leadership roles, proving their capabilities. "As a woman in breakbulk shipping, particularly within Blue Water Shipping, I have had the privilege of working in an environment that values respect, trust, and collaboration", said Wen Chen, Category Head of Oil & Gas Eastern Hemisphere, Blue Water Shipping

A Supportive Workplace: Respect, Trust and Collaboration
Having spent over 20 years at with global freight forwarding companies, my journey in the breakbulk logistics has been shaped by the support of my superiors, who trusted my abilities and collaborative colleagues who recognized the value of teamwork regardless of gender. Working at Blue Water Shipping has reinforced the belief that a workplace built on respect and inclusion fosters success for everyone.

In the fast-paced world of breakbulk shipping, trust and teamwork are essential. Blue Water Shipping has cultivated an environment where women are encouraged to take initiative, lead, and contribute meaningfully to projects. Having a supportive superior who values my input has been instrumental in my growth. When leaders place trust in their employees, it empowers individuals to rise to challenges and drive results.

Similarly, working with collaborative colleagues has played a huge role in my professional journey. Breakbulk logistics is complex, requiring seamless coordination between multiple stakeholders. Success is not about individual effort but about working together to ensure smooth operations. From my experience, respect and teamwork have helped break stereotypes and strengthen workplace relationships.

Building Confidence Through Experience
One of the biggest lessons I have learned over the years is that confidence comes from experience. In breakbulk shipping, where large-scale projects and high-value cargo are involved, having a strong command of processes, regulations, and client needs is crucial. My background with DHL and extensive years in the industry have given me the ability to make informed decisions, problem-solve under pressure, and lead conversations with stakeholders confidently.

While some customers and colleagues may initially question a woman’s expertise in breakbulk logistics, earning respect is about proving oneself through knowledge and execution. Fortunately, many customers and co-workers are incredibly supportive, recognizing skills and experience over gender. Having customers who trust my expertise has reinforced my belief that competence and dedication speak louder than stereotypes.

Breaking stereotypes about Women in Breakbulk logistics
Challenges exist for women in all industries including breakbulk logistics. Earning respect in a male-dominated field can be overcome by :

Proving expertise in technical discussions
Building confidence through experience
Having a support system that fosters respect, trust and collaboration 
Balancing work-life commitments in a demanding industry
These challenges are not insurmountable. The key to overcoming them lies in confidence, persistence, and support systems. Women who continuously build their knowledge, engage in industry discussions, and assert themselves professionally can challenge outdated norms. Additionally, companies like Blue Water Shipping that foster an inclusive culture help pave the way for more women to thrive.

Right Culture provides the Conditions for Personal and Career growth at Blue Water Shipping 
The breakbulk and logistics industry is evolving, and women are playing an increasingly vital role in its growth. My journey at Blue Water Shipping has been shaped by supportive leadership, collaborative colleagues, and trusted customers—all of whom have made my experience in this field fulfilling. While challenges remain, women who are confident, experienced, and determined will continue to make their mark in breakbulk logistics. 

Yuxue Chen

Regional Sales Manager Deugro Emirates shipping LLC

Step out of your comfort zone and take action.

Zai Miztik

Founder and CEO Step Up Journey

Zina Sujith

General Manager Gulftainer Co Ltd

"Resilience in this industry is not about pushing back—it is about pushing forward."