Maritime Trailblazer Karin Orsel Honored with Gender Equality Recognition by IMO

Image Credits: IMO

Celebrating a Maritime trailblazer: Advancing Gender Equality in Shipping

On May 16, Ms. Karin Orsel, a prominent shipowner from the Netherlands, received the prestigious Gender Equality Award from the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The award was presented by Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez during a ceremony in London, just before the International day for Women in Maritime on May 18.

Each year, this accolade is given to individuals who have made notable strides toward promoting gender equality within the maritime industry. A distinguished panel selects the recipient with approval from the IMO Council.

During her acceptance speech, Ms. Orsel emphasized the importance of creating robust support systems for women entering maritime careers. “I’m deeply committed to fostering talent in our field and believe mentorship is key,” she shared with enthusiasm. “Think back to your own beginnings—who helped you? Now it’s time to pay it forward.”

Starting her shipping journey at just 18 years old,Ms.Orsel co-founded MF Shipping Group by age 23. What began as a modest fleet of six vessels has now expanded to over 55 ships and more than 1,000 crew members alongside an office team of around 80.

As CEO for two decades, she has championed inclusivity by actively recruiting diverse talent and mentoring newcomers while supporting initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation in maritime roles.Despite women still being underrepresented in shipping, Ms. Orsel pointed out that upcoming changes driven by decarbonization efforts could open new doors for female professionals. With IMO’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 on the horizon, there will be an urgent need for innovative technologies and option fuels—creating opportunities that require retraining within our workforce.

“The shift towards sustainable energy presents us with unique chances,” she noted passionately before an engaged audience at IMO headquarters.“We’ll need fresh skill sets—and who better than those here today?”

Secretary-General Dominguez praised her as an inspiring figure for both women and youth within maritime circles: “[Karin Orsel] is transforming our industry one vessel and one individual at a time.” He highlighted how throughout her remarkable three-decade career she has shattered numerous barriers while paving paths for others to follow suit.

currently serving as President of the European Community Shipowners’ Association (ECSA) and Chair of ISWAN (International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network), Ms. orsel also holds positions on several influential boards including INTERCARGO and WISTA International—where she previously served as President both internationally and locally in its Netherlands chapter.

In celebrating leaders like Karin Orsel, we not only recognize their achievements but also inspire future generations to embrace change within this vital sector.