On May 16, 2025, as part of the campaign “An Ocean of Opportunities for African Women“, an educational visit was organized at the school “Au Cocon du Bonheur“, located in Cité El Haj Malick Sy, Mamelles Renaissance, in Dakar, Senegal. This initiative, led by Blue Women Africa and supported by its partners – Maritimafrica, Maritime Women, AFEMAS, and the Centre Trainmar de Dakar – aimed to introduce children to the fascinating world of oceans and the many career opportunities they offer.
Objectives of the Visit
- To raise children’s awareness of the vital importance of seas and oceans,
- To awaken them to the need to protect marine environments,
- To introduce them to ocean-related professions,
- To spark their passion for the marine world – the “Blue”,
- To encourage them to consider future careers connected to the ocean.
A Rich and Varied Program
The visit began with the screening of two educational videos presented by Mrs. Pascaline Odoubourou, co-founder of Blue Women Africa and Founder of Maritimafrica, focusing on the oceans and their protection. Guided by her, the children enthusiastically participated in a lively discussion about the video content, answering questions about the importance of the oceans and daily actions to protect them.
Following that, Mrs. Awa Camara Bousso, President of Maritime Women, Capt. Ndeye Aby Gueye, President of AFEMAS, Mr. Timaag Yannick Sène, Ship Captain, and Mr. Serigne Fallou Thiam, Ship Captain, shared their experiences and professions with the students.
From port logistics to navigation and maritime safety, the exchanges were rich and interactive, masterfully animated by Mr. Carlos Kpodiefin, Editor-in-Chief of MARITIMAFRICA, who successfully captured each child’s curiosity.
Creative Workshop and Keepsake
The morning concluded with a coloring workshop, where the children brought to life a drawing of a bustling port scene (container ship, tugboat, gantry crane, mooring crew, etc.).
To commemorate the moment, two group photos were taken with the completed artwork, which was given as a keepsake to the children and the school.
This initiative highlights the importance of involving young people – especially girls – at an early stage in the blue economy dynamic and helping them envision maritime career prospects, which are often overlooked.
