Determination, resilience, and courage to pursue an unconventional dream have earned Minoshka Rodrigues a place in Goa's maritime history as the first female life member of the Goa Maritime Officers Association (GMOA).
Having recently cleared her Class 4 Certificate of Competency (CoC) examinations, Minoshka's achievement marks a significant milestone not only in her personal journey but also for aspiring women seafarers across Goa and India.
LOVE FOR MARITIME SECTOR
Born to Geofry Rodrigues and Jannet Rodrigues, Minoshka's path to the Merchant Navy was far from straightforward. Growing up, her dream was not shipping but serving the nation through the Indian Navy.
Her education began at Our Own kintergarden in Sanvorcotto, Cuncolim, before continuing at Maria Bambina School, Cuncolim, to study till Std 8. She later attended Holy Cross High School, Siolim, for her secondary education and completed her higher secondary studies at Pope John XXIII Higher Secondary School, Quepem, before moving on to engineering studies in Karnataka.
"I pursued science in higher secondary and later mechanical engineering because my only dream at that time was to join the Indian Navy," she recalls.
After completing her mechanical engineering from KLE Engineering College, Belgaum, Minoshka actively pursued opportunities in the defence sector and even cleared the AFCAT examination. However, during the screening process, she realised that stage fear and hesitation during group discussions were obstacles she struggled to overcome.
"That experience made me realise that perhaps the path I had chosen was not truly meant for me," she says.
Yet one thing remained unchanged ” her desire for a career filled with adventure, challenges, and purpose.
"I always wanted a profession that would challenge me physically and mentally. I wanted a life beyond the ordinary."
Despite her engineering qualification, finding the right opportunity proved difficult. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Minoshka worked in several fields unrelated to engineering, including assignments with IPAC, LIC, and BPO companies, while searching for a meaningful career path.
At the time, she had little knowledge about opportunities for women in the maritime sector. Minoshka contacted companies seeking information about engineering roles onboard ships, but most responses were discouraging.
"I had absolutely no guidance about the maritime field for women," she says. "But I never stopped searching for what I truly wanted."
A turning point came when a friend casually mentioned the Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) course available for mechanical engineers aspiring to join the shipping industry. Encouraged by her sister, who helped her explore the field further, Minoshka decided to take the leap.
She enrolled at AMET University, Chennai, completed her GME course, and soon secured placement with Seaspan Crew Management, marking the beginning of her maritime career.
Her first assignment was aboard the vessel CSCL Sydney as an engine cadet. She later sailed on YM Wholesome as a trainee marine engineer, gaining invaluable practical experience at sea.
The hands-on nature of marine engineering appealed to Minoshka from the beginning.
"During my internships at automobile service centres, I realised I genuinely enjoyed repairing, troubleshooting, and working with machines. But I wanted more than a regular engineering job. I wanted travel, exposure, adventure, and growth. Becoming an engineer onboard gave me all of that."
Today, after successfully clearing her Class 4 examinations, Minoshka is steadily progressing towards the next phase of her maritime career.
BECOMING GMOA MEMBER
Minoshka says joining the Goa Maritime Officers Association as a life member is a matter of immense pride.
"Being part of GMOA provides young seafarers like me with strong support, mentorship, and networking opportunities. It is a platform where experienced professionals guide the next generation and encourage discussions about the welfare and advancement of maritime professionals."
Her achievement is particularly significant because she becomes the first female life member of the association, serving as an inspiration to many young women considering careers at sea.
The GMOA welcomed her achievement by expressing hope that her success story would motivate more women to enter the maritime profession and contribute to the industry's growth.
HER JOURNEY, MESSAGE
Reflecting on her journey, Minoshka attributes her success entirely to her family.
"I dedicate my success to my family. Without their support, trust, and encouragement, I would never have reached where I am today. They always allowed me to take unconventional paths and supported my decisions even when they were difficult."
Interestingly, she does not identify any particular role model.
"To be honest, I don't really have a role model. I never wanted to become someone else. I have always wanted to be the best version of myself and create my own identity through my own journey and experiences."
To young people pursuing their dreams, Minoshka offers a message rooted in her own experiences.
"If you ever feel deeply unsatisfied with where you are, do not be afraid to walk away and work towards what truly makes you happy. Dream fearlessly because dreams can absolutely be achieved through dedication, patience, consistency, and determination."
Her advice to young women is equally powerful.
"Never let anyone decide your limits for you. Do not allow negativity or other people's opinions to stop you from taking bold decisions."
As she continues her voyage in the maritime industry, Minoshka Rodrigues stands as a shining example of perseverance, proving that with courage and conviction, even the most unconventional dreams can become reality.
