Nayomi Amarasinghe has made history as Sri Lanka’s first female seafarer, a milestone achieved with the support of an ILO partnership with the Mahapola Port and Maritime Academy. This collaboration enabled Nayomi to secure a position with the renowned Carnival Cruise Line, bringing her a new sense of independence and purpose.
Amidst Sri Lanka’s economic struggles, marked by unprecedented stagflation and multiple crises affecting businesses, jobs, and income, Nayomi’s accomplishment stands out. In October 2022, at the age of 21, she landed a prestigious job with Carnival Cruise Line, providing hope and inspiration in challenging times.
“I’m overjoyed that I was able to overcome the gender barrier that prevented me from becoming a seafarer,” Nayomi shared with the ILO. Her passion for the maritime industry is evident from the anchor tattoo on her wrist, symbolizing her commitment to her profession.
Early Life and Aspirations
After completing her secondary education, Nayomi aspired to become a journalist. Despite attending multiple training courses, she struggled to find employment in journalism. Undeterred, she joined her sister’s business, assisting daily. Realizing that business was not her calling, Nayomi explored a career in hairdressing, enrolling in a course with the intention of becoming a hairdresser.
During this time, Nayomi learned about a seafarer training opportunity offered by the National Union of Seafarers Sri Lanka (NUSS) at the Mahapola Port and Maritime Academy, supported by the ILO. The ILO’s “Skilling Sri Lankan Migrant Workers Affected by COVID-19 for Employment, Decent Jobs, and Entrepreneurship Project” aimed to upskill returnee and aspiring migrant workers affected by the pandemic, targeting lucrative employment opportunities in the maritime sector. Through this initiative, NUSS and the Mahapola Academy trained 21 young men and three young women in seafaring.
Overcoming Challenges
Nayomi discovered the NUSS program through Ms. Manel Athukorala, a prominent member of the union. NUSS, an independent trade union for Sri Lankan seafarers, provides safety, security, and protection in the maritime world while advocating for workers’ rights and dignity.
Convincing her parents to support her decision to pursue seafaring was a significant challenge. Despite her brothers’ service in the Sri Lanka Navy, her parents were initially reluctant. “It was an effort to get my parents’ blessings to enter the maritime academy,” Nayomi recalls. “It’s difficult to work in this industry, especially if you are a woman.”
Training and Success
Nayomi received excellent training from leading trainers Kishan Maduranga and Captain Gamini Wilson at the academy. “I was able to effectively complete my learning program as a result of these two mentors,” Nayomi says, crediting their guidance and support for her successful transition into the maritime industry.
Nayomi Amarasinghe’s journey from aspiring journalist to Sri Lanka’s first female seafarer is a testament to her resilience and determination. Her story inspires many, showcasing the power of breaking barriers and pursuing one’s passion, regardless of societal norms and challenges.
