PROJECT OLIVIA

Every year, the amount of transport over water rises. The same is true for the number of jobs in the maritime sector, in multinationals, local start-ups and within the government. However, it remains a predominantly male sector. We want to change that with Project Olivia, by inspiring women to choose a job on, by or around the water. A goal that we share with many other countries and one which we are eager to cooperate on internationally.

Objectives

Project Olivia focuses on raising awareness around training, jobs and career paths for women in the maritime sector. To that aim, testimonials from real industry experts are gathered and shared, focusing on 3 aspects:

1. Job variation

The maritime sector offers many different kinds of jobs. From working as a captain or technician on a ship to thinking about water in terms of policy at a shipyard or in a laboratory.

2. The connecting power of water

Water connects. Both within Belgium, via waterways, seaports and the hinterland, as well as with the rest of the world. This can offer real opportunities for building an international career.

3. A sector for all

Thanks to the diversity of jobs in the maritime sector, there is something for everyone, regardless of your degree or talent.

Job security and challenge prevail

With Project Olivia, we want to show women that a job in the maritime sector has several advantages. For example, the continued growth of the sector means that they can enjoy job stability. In addition, there are constantly new opportunities due to the versatility of the sector. Finally, Flanders’ position as one of the main logistics hubs in Europe makes for challenging and meaningful work every day.

Equal representation, a shared goal

Attracting women in a male-dominated sector is a challenge. Therefore, we like to share our knowledge on this, but are also curious to find out how other actors approach this subject. What works, what doesn’t? By exchanging experiences, we can work together to achieve equal representation in this exciting sector.

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