Karen Martin
Commercial Director, London International Shipping Week
What piece of career advice would you give your younger self if you knew then what you know now?
Never be afraid to be yourself. It’s enough, focus on your strengths and not your weaknesses. Your weakness is someone else’s strength – be you.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome these?
When someone says ‘you won’t be able to’ – the best motivator ever!
Who would you say was your role model either now, or when you were growing up?
To be perfectly frank, I work with, and have met the most amazing women and men alike across my career but my role model without a shadow of a doubt was my mother.
What advice would you give to young women who are interested in a career in the maritime industry?
Go for it … you will never look back, it’s challenging, exciting, important, necessary, welcoming, fabulous – a privilege.
Samira Hmam
Senior Business Analyst, Gard.
What piece of career advice would you give your younger self if you knew then what you know now?
Always be loyal to your own set of values and try not to underestimate yourself so much. Find a role model in the industry or in your company and spend time with them, you will learn a lot this way.
What advice would you give to young women who are interested in a career in the maritime industry?
I would say “welcome” with big open arms! It is an industry with a purpose, smart people, and a fascinating history.
Temi Binitie
Maritime Professional
What piece of career advice would you give your younger self if you knew then what you know now?
I would say to Temi to trust her instincts more and to explore more of the world by seeking international working opportunities.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome these?
There is no question that working in the law can be highly stressful: long hours, short deadlines and complex work etc and therefore achieving a work/life balance has been difficult. Setting goals to do the things you love, switching off or compartmentalising and cultivating relationships outside the law is critical to maintaining mental & physical well-being.
Who would you say was your role model either now, or when you were growing up?
My mother, always! She makes magic happen, not always the calmest however, forever wise.
What advice would you give to young women who are interested in a career in the maritime industry?
Explore all options presented whilst constantly discovering yourself; the industry has multiple layers and several angles to it that you are sure to find a sector you love, will thrive at and add value to.
