A trip to the Grahamstown Science Festival had ignited a passion for the high seas in Grade 11 Mthatha learner, Xoliswa Bekiswa.
Now, several years later, she is part of a handful of black women making history with Transnet National Ports Authority.
Twenty-nine-year-old Bekiswa is one of five female marine pilots to obtain an open license which enables her to pilot a vessel of any size.
She is currently plying her trade at the Port of Ngqura.
Recalling her trip to the National Science Festival, Bekiswa said "on the last day of the excursion, I went to curiously investigate an exhibition with pictures of vessels and ship models. The exhibitor explained in detail the process, dynamics and benefits of choosing a career in the maritime industry and I was hooked immediately," she said.
"I started doing research on my own, and for me, the greatest achievement personally and professionally, is the day I got my unrestricted licence." What is unrestricted licence?
Transnet National Ports Authority says in 2001 Bekiswa received a bursary from TNPA to pursue a one-year maritime studies programme and she then went on to complete her practical training as a cadet out at sea with Unicorn Shipping Line.
"After a compulsory oral examination with the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), Bekiswa was awarded a Class 3 Desk Officer ticket to be a junior Deck Officer responsible for auto piloting vessels and managing safety equipment," TNPA said in a statement.
"She then trained and worked as a tug master at the Port of Durban, directing ships in and out of the port with the aid of small tugboats."
"After a one-year pilot training programme, she qualified as a junior pilot at the Port of Cape Town before progressing through the various licence grades, starting with smaller ships of around 16 000 gross tons, then 20 000, 25 000, 35 000 and eventually finishing with an open licence at the Port of Ngqura."
When asked about her experience as a marine pilot, Bekiswa explained that one of her challenges is working with different people from other countries as there appeared to be some sort of culture barrier.
"When I get on board a vessel to pilot it in or out of port, I notice some reservation and fear from the Captain initially. However, they realise that I am quite efficient once I start manoeuvring the vessel.
"I take the lesson learned from my mother with me every day, that through patience, perseverance, strength and faith, anything is possible," said Bekiswa.
TNPA chief executive Tau Morwe said "while the maritime industry is still male dominated, TNPA is striving towards bridging that gap by promoting and encouraging women to enter this industry."
"It is noteworthy that positive steps have been taken towards fulfilling this vision as a growing number of women - especially blacks - are seizing opportunities in this industry," he said.
