The ferry master living the ‘give to gain’ spirit of Women’s Day 2026

As the world marked International Women’s Day on 8 March, one woman along Kenya’s coast has been intentionally living its message for years, mentoring the next generation, largely unknown to many.

Mishi Idi Omar, a ferry master at the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), spends her days helping thousands of commuters safely cross the busy Likoni channel in Mombasa.

But beyond navigating vessels and coordinating ferry operations, she is also giving back, mentoring the next generation of maritime professionals and embodying the 2026 theme for International Women’s Day: Give to Gain.

“As a ferry master, I have a tight schedule, but I always find time to mentor young girls and boys.”

For Omar, the statement reflects a commitment she has quietly lived for years. Her job demands precision, discipline and early mornings as she oversees ferry operations along one of Kenya’s most critical transport links. Yet even within the pressures of the role, she has made mentorship a priority.

Her story recently captured attention online after her employer KPA shared a Women’s Day post celebrating her work. Within hours, the post began drawing admiration, with many praising not only her leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field but also her commitment to mentorship.

For those who work alongside her, the attention simply brought visibility to something Omar has long been doing away from the spotlight, giving her time, experience and guidance to young people curious about maritime careers.

In doing so, she is not only helping thousands of commuters cross the waters of Mombasa every day, but also helping a new generation find their way into the maritime world. For Omar, the sea has always been part of her identity.

“I have always been drawn to the water and fascinated by ships and navigation. Growing up at the coast, I spent a lot of time on or near the water which sparked my love for maritime activities. I wanted a career that combined my passion for the sea with a sense of responsibility and service. Becoming a ferry master allowed me to do just that, to navigate safely and connect communities, which I find meaningful.” 

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Mishi Idi Omar gives students she mentors from Bandari Maritime Academy a rare opportunity to observe operations from the bridge of the ferry she commands at the Likoni crossing.

Today, that passion shapes a demanding career that begins long before sunrise. She says. Her mornings start early. 

“My day usually begins quite early, at around 4:30 a.m. I pray, take light breakfast, then have a quick review of the weather forecasts. I typically leave the house at 5:30 a.m.” 

By the time the first commuters arrive, Omar is already preparing for another day overseeing one of Kenya’s most important transport crossings. The Likoni Channel is a vital, bustling 500 metre maritime crossing linking Mombasa Island to the mainland suburb of Likoni. Operated by Kenya Ferry Services, the crossing carries more than 300,000 commuters every day, with pedestrians travelling free while vehicles, trucks and tuk-tuks pay tolls. 

“My primary responsibility is to oversee the safe and efficient operation of the ferry services.” 

Yet the most meaningful part of her work often happens beyond the ferry deck. She believes visibility can change how young people see their future. “When they see me doing it, they know they can also do it.” For Omar, giving time is its own reward. 

“They say time is money. So when I give my time to these young boys and girls, it fulfills my heart. Mentorship is a vital part in developing the next generation of maritime professionals.” Her message echoes the spirit of this year's International Women’s Day. “To every expert out there, give your time, mentor the next generation of experts, then give them opportunities.” 

Along the waters of the Likoni channel,  where ferries move constantly between island and mainland, Omar is building another kind of crossing: a mentorship bridge for the next generation of maritime leaders.