On this special episode of Columbia Group Unplugged, we mark Day of the Seafarer with a powerful conversation on building harassment-free ships.

Simona Toma, Capt. Leonid Zalenski, and Anca Preda—maritime leaders with deep seafaring experience—share personal stories, challenges, and the steps Columbia Group is taking to ensure every crew member feels safe, respected, and supported at sea.

From open-door leadership to reporting systems and training, this episode sheds light on what it takes to create real change onboard—and why a safe ship is everyone's responsibility.

Mirroring the theme of the International Maritime Organization’s symposium - An Ocean of Opportunities - we dedicated our latest Columbia Group Unplugged podcast episode to highlighting gender dynamics in shipping and how they play into the careers of women in our industry.

Maria Theodosiou, GP General Procurement Company Limited (GenPro)’s Managing Director, and Yiola Hadjichristodoulou, Senior QSHE Officer, discussed their personal career journeys, growth into leadership roles, and the importance of inclusion to support women in traditionally male-dominated fields.

According to the IMO, women make up 20% of the maritime workforce ashore, and even less at sea. Our Female Cadetship Programme, dedicated DEI teams, inclusive hiring practices, and women in senior leadership roles reflect our commitment to building an equitable maritime workforce. From crew to C-suite, we support women at every step of their journey.

Join us in celebrating the invaluable contribution of the women in our industry.

In this episode, Gavin Scott (Deputy QSHE Manager | Deputy DPA) and Ko Ko Naing (Deputy Group Director QSHE & Compliance) dive into the heart of what safety really means at Columbia Group. From personal stories that shaped their commitment to safety, to how Columbia is standing by its crews through new regulations, mental health initiatives, and real-time vessel support—they explore what it takes to create a culture where safety and sustainability go hand in hand. Whether you’re onboard or ashore, this episode is a powerful reminder that safety isn’t just a rule—it’s a mindset.