Filipina Master Mariner Wins Seafarer Of The Year At 2025 Crew Connect Global Awards

Capt. Zulaika Florin, a master mariner working at OSM Thome under Hafnia, has been named the Seafarer of the Year at the 2025 Crew Connect Global Awards, standing out among five shortlisted seafarers from around the world.

The award recognises individuals who show exceptional leadership, dedication, and a strong contribution to the maritime community.

Florin, who sails chemical tankers under Hafnia, the world’s largest tanker company, has been widely praised for her leadership and resilience at sea.

OSM Thome described her in a social media post as someone who continues to push boundaries “with grit, grace, and unwavering leadership,” displaying fairness on board and making tough decisions during critical moments. The company described her as someone who leads with conviction and compassion.

In an earlier interview, Florin explained that sailing on chemical tankers is rare, especially for women, and said she had not expected to become a captain.

She shared that becoming a woman leader at sea felt like “passing through a needle’s hole,” and added that she always had to prove her abilities. She also said her patience, faith, and family’s support kept her moving forward in her career.

Alongside Florin’s recognition, seven other maritime professionals and organisations were honoured at the Seatrade Maritime Crew Connect Global Awards held on 12 November.

These awards highlight innovation, leadership, and efforts to improve crew welfare, safety, and professional development across the industry.

This year’s winners include:

Innovation and Technology Award: Maersk Training

Training and Safety at Sea Award: Capital Group

Environmental & Green Transition Award: Signol

Health and Wellbeing at Sea Award: Agwa

Industry Partner Award: Adopt A Ship International

Seafarer of the Year Award (sponsored by Air France–KLM): Capt. Zulaika Florin

Lifetime Achievement Award 2025: Capt. Belal Ahmed, Immediate Past Chairman of IMEC and Managing Director of Western Shipping, Singapore

Industry Champion Award – Audience Choice: Steven Jones, founder of the Seafarers Happiness Index

Chris Morlet, group director at Seatrade Maritime, said the organisation was proud of the winners and finalists. He added that judges underwent a rigorous assessment process this year and said the outstanding achievements of the finalists show the significant progress being made across the maritime sector.

Reference: manilatimes