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30 under 30: Ones to Watch – Showcasing the next generation of maritime talent (3)

  • Sep 9, 2025
  • Reading Time: 5 mins

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on the next generation of rising talent in the maritime industry. From mentees turned trailblazers, to client-recommended innovators, and fresh voices from across our network — these are the ones to watch.

Clementine Matiwaza
Recruitment Consultant, Spinnaker

What attracted you to the maritime industry?
What really attracted me to the maritime industry is how international it is. I love the idea of working in a space where you are constantly connecting with people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds.

Have you had any mentors or inspirational people who inspired your career or the sector you are in?

Yes, definitely. I have been lucky to have a few mentors along the way, but one in particular really stands out, Liam Daly, someone who had a deep passion for his role here at Spinnaker and always took the time to share their knowledge and experience.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I see myself continuing to grow within the maritime industry, ideally in a managing role where I can help drive innovation and support the next generation of talent.

Is there any advice you have been given or would give to someone about coming into the maritime industry?
Connect, connect, connect — one of the best ways to meet experienced and passionate maritime professionals is by putting yourself out there and getting involved.

Francesca Arrom
Yacht Insurance Sales Department, Pantaenius Spain.

What attracted you to the maritime industry?
Before I started working in the maritime industry, it was a complete unknown to me.  I was curious to understand why so many people were drawn to it. As I learned more about it, I realized it was a key industry with a lot to offer. Definitely worth giving a chance and it certainly hasn’t disappointed me.

Have you had any mentors or inspirational people who inspired your career or the sector you are in?
I wouldn’t be able to choose just one person. One of the first things I noticed when I started, and something that hasn’t changed over time, is that everyone in this industry is truly passionate about it. It’s truly motivating to see how dynamic the sector is and how much people genuinely enjoy what they do.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In ten years, I see myself having built a solid career in the maritime industry, leading new projects and working with an awesome team. Most of all, I’ll still be learning and taking in everything the industry has to offer.

Is there any advice you have been given or would give to someone about coming into the maritime industry?
The maritime industry is much bigger and more important than it appears from the outside. It’s definitely a sector worth being part of. Be ready for constant change and learn from the people around you, they’ll always have valuable advice worth hearing.

Marianna Xifara
Dry Bulk Charterer, A.M. Nomikos

What attracted you to the maritime industry?
As a Greek citizen born and raised in a country deeply connected to the shipping industry, I was naturally drawn to this dynamic field. Shipping offers the unique opportunity to engage with various facets of global commerce, which greatly appealed to me. Greece also provides a wide range of university programs in areas such as Shipping, Maritime Law, and Shipping Finance. These courses not only deepened my understanding of the industry but also connected me with professionals and companies through guest lectures and site visits. These experiences confirmed my passion and solidified my decision to pursue a career in shipping.

Have you had any mentors or inspirational people who inspired your career or the sector you are in?

Absolutely — I’ve been deeply inspired by the legacy of Greek shipping families and entrepreneurs who built global businesses from scratch. Their long-term vision, appetite for risk, and ability to navigate through volatile markets showed me that this is a sector where ambition and hard work truly pay off. That heritage really fueled my own drive to succeed in chartering, where every day presents a new challenge and opportunity.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I see myself as a senior leader in chartering — ideally heading a team or managing a regional desk within a dynamic shipping company. I want to be known for my strategic thinking, strong client relationships, and commercial awareness. I also aspire to contribute to the industry’s evolution, whether by mentoring younger professionals, promoting diversity in shipping, or helping drive digital and sustainable practices within chartering. Ultimately, I want to grow into a role where I combine commercial success with meaningful impact.

Is there any advice you have been given or would give to someone about coming into the maritime industry?
Focus on building a solid foundation of both technical knowledge and commercial awareness. The shipping industry is global, fast-moving, and constantly evolving with technology, regulations, and geopolitical shifts. Stay informed about market trends, environmental regulations (like decarbonization and ESG), and digital innovations. At the same time, invest in building relationships — networking is crucial in this industry. Lastly, be prepared to adapt quickly and think globally, as success in shipping often comes from being proactive, resilient, and open to opportunities across borders.
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