From Challenges to Champions: Women Shaping the Logistics Industry

Uma Negi, Global Head – Marketing & partner Program, Softlink Global penned her thoughts so beautifully….

How do you think we can celebrate and honor the achievements of women in the cargo and logistics industry on International Women’s Day and throughout the year?

I’ve seen it first-hand. Women in cargo and logistics? They’ve really worked hard. They’ve pushed, they’ve broken down barriers, and they’ve made their mark in a field that used to be pretty much all men. And that’s why, on International Women’s Day and every day, we’ve got to celebrate them. We need to share their stories and tell everyone about their successes. We need to be mentors to the young women coming up, and we need to publicly recognize their contributions.

Honestly, even small things make a difference. A simple appreciation post, getting them on panel discussions, offering leadership programs – these things really matter. And companies as well have a huge role to play. Training programs, leadership initiatives, and policies that truly encourage inclusivity – that’s what’s needed.

Let’s build a culture of appreciation, create networking events and industry awards that shine a light on their achievements. That’s how we inspire more women to step up and lead. Because they’re more than capable, and they deserve to be recognized.

Can you share any challenges you’ve faced as a woman working in the cargo and logistics industry, and also, how did you overcome them?

When I first stepped into the shipping, cargo, and logistics industry, it felt like I’d walked into a room where everyone spoke a language I was just learning. There were whispers, not unkind, but questioning. ‘Is she sure she knows what she’s doing?’ they seemed to say. It wasn’t malice, just… expectation. So, I decided to rewrite the script. I had to transform myself into a sponge, soaking up every bit of knowledge and every technical detail. I spoke up in meetings, not to be loud, but to be heard, to show that I wasn’t just filling a space, I was contributing.

Then came the tightrope walk, balancing the 24/7 demands of logistics with the need to have a life outside of it. There were nights I’d be drafting bills of lading or AMS filings or ensuring a late arrived container to gate in for an early loading while my friends were out, days I’d miss personal events because a shipment was delayed or wrongly transhipped. But I learned to draw lines, to say, ‘This is important, but so am I.’ I found mentors, those who’d walked similar paths, and they showed me it was possible. And you know what? Slowly, the whispers turned into nods, the questions into collaborations. The room started to feel like my own, a place where I belonged, not just because I was there but because I earned my place.

How can women in the cargo and logistics industry take advantage of the opportunities created by digitalisation to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact in the industry?

I have been lucky that I had worked in shipping and logistics first hand and then simultaneously contributed in reshaping the shipping industry via digitalization, since the year 2003.

Digitalization is transforming logistics, opening doors for women to take on more strategic and leadership roles. To benefit from this shift, women should focus on upskilling in areas like data analytics, AI-driven supply chain management, and digital freight solutions. Online courses, industry webinars, and certifications can help in staying ahead. Embracing technology not only makes processes more efficient but also allows women to work smarter, making a strong impact in an industry that thrives on innovation.

What advice would you give to young women who are interested in pursuing a career in the cargo and logistics industry?

For young women entering the cargo and logistics field, my strongest advice is to approach it with unwavering confidence and a relentless drive for knowledge. Don’t let perceived barriers deter you; instead, actively seek practical experience through internships and entry-level roles, building a solid foundation. Cultivate a robust professional network, embrace technological advancements, and consistently advocate for yourself. Explore the diverse facets of the industry to discover your passion, and remember that your unique perspective is a valuable asset. Be bold, persistent, and ready to seize the abundant opportunities this dynamic sector offers.

Please share an excerpt from your journey or any of your experiences working as a woman in the cargo/logistics industry.

When I first stepped into this industry, it often felt like entering a room where everything, the conversations, the tools, even the unspoken things, just seemed designed for a different point of view. That’s how it often felt.

Early on, it’s not just about knowing your work, it’s about showing it. Over and over again. You sometimes find yourself having to speak up a bit more, explain things a little more thoroughly, just to make sure you’re heard. And, yeah, there are those moments. You look around, and you realize you’re the only woman in the room or on the warehouse floor, and it can feel pretty isolating.

But then you find those connections. Those moments where you find allies, both men and women, who truly see your value and support you. And that makes all the difference. The industry is changing, slowly but surely. You see more women in leadership, companies are starting to really embrace diversity, and that’s incredibly encouraging.

To me, it’s been a journey of resilience, really. It’s about pushing boundaries and, hopefully, paving the way for the women who come after us.