In the ninth episode of our Women Power column, we interviewed Gifty Adu-Gyamfi, Second Officer for Celebrity Cruises, with lot of determination, hard work and discipline you will sail through.
1. What was the main motivation behind your choice to pursue a career in cruise ships?
My motivation to work on a cruise came from the edge to be part of a team that works together to provide an enjoyable and memorable vacation experience for passengers. I believe that working on a cruise ship would be a challenging and rewarding experience. Cruise ships offer a distinctive work environment that can be exciting and dynamic. It’s a good place for strong networking and also experiencing cultural diversity. Also meeting great people like Captain Kate Mccue, Nicoline Azirh, Rachel Pagonis, Liz Marami, Captain Makhosi, Captain Maria, Captain Haizel, Captain Hannah, Captain Leo, Captain Evangelis, Captain Troulakis, and many more motivates me that I can also achieve my dreams of becoming a great Captain.
2. Can you share a significant moment or experience that made you realize this was the right job for you?
My first contract as a Cadet made me realize this was the right job for me. It wasn’t easy as a 1st timer onboard. But I had amazing colleagues who helped and pushed me through. Then I said to myself I won’t give up no matter the challenges that may come. God, My mum, family and best friend and friends have been my greatest support. They motivate me not to give up when things get tougher.
3. Being a cruise ship officer is often associated with a male-dominated environment. How have you faced and overcome gender-related challenges in your career?
Loneliness and homesickness are some of the problems I face. The only way I could cope up with this situation is by keeping myself engaged. I would pen down my thoughts in a personal diary and would engage in hobbies. Do artwork or sing songs, read some good books and watch movies. I would always carry some inspirational books with me on board ships. Sea work has always belonged to men until women also try to survive in the industry making it a bit difficult to cope but I strongly believe that the universe favors the brave. Willpower is the essential virtue of a fully actualised life.
4. What is the specific role you play on board the ship and what are the challenges and satisfactions it brings?
So I am a 2nd Officer onboard. I work with Celebrity Cruise. I assist with the safe navigation of the vessel and I’m also in charge of all Life Saving Appliances onboard. It gives me much satisfaction to know that my contribution to the safety of the vessel, crew and passengers and also the environment counts. Thanks to Celebrity Cruises for giving me this amazing opportunity to be part of this family.
5. When you were a child, did you have a secret dream?
As a child, I had the dream of becoming a Medical Doctor. My dreams changed when I was in my 3rd year in Senior High School. I watched Titanic again one day and the 1st thing that caught my mind was the Captain’s uniform with the anchor stripes. There I told myself I want to be in this uniform one day.
6. Cruise ships are often considered microcosms of cultural diversity. How do you manage communication and interpersonal relationships with such a diverse crew?
When it comes to managing communication we all try to speak in one language that’s English mostly for basics. I also use this opportunity to try to learn other languages. We mostly hold activities, tea breaks and parties to foster good relationships between the crews.
7. How do you manage work-life balance when you spend long periods away from home?
For my work life balance, when I’m away from home for long I mostly invest my time in activities such as exercise and relaxation, promoting physical well-being. I also call family at home on video calls to connect with them as well. I read books, listen to music and also motivational movies/ videos to keep me going during my contract.
8. What is the most rewarding aspect of your profession and what motivates you to continue working on cruise ships?
The most rewarding aspect of my profession is getting to travel across the world which gives me the opportunity to know new countries , cultures, people and languages. It’s a lovely experience and this motivates me more to keep working in this industry.
9. Finally, what advice would you give to those considering a career as a cruise ship officer, especially women who may feel uncertain about this career path?
My advice I would give those considering a career as a cruise ship officer, especially women who may feel uncertain about this career path is being a seafarer is not easy but with lot of determination, hard work and discipline you will sail through. Be ready to learn and acquire more knowledge. Also share your knowledge with others and always be that great change maker.
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