Ms Yu Jiajia, Teaching Chief Mate and instructor at Navigation College, Dalian Maritime University, has been selected to receive the 2027 IMO Gender Equality Award, following her nomination by China. The award is bestowed on individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women in the maritime sector.   

The IMO Council endorsed Ms Yu Jiajia as the recipient during its 138th session held in London (2-6 November 2026), to receive the award in May 2027, alongside celebrations for the International Day for Women in Maritime (18 May). 

Over the past 16 years, Ms Yu has combined her experience as a seafarer with teaching, research and advocacy to advance opportunities for women in the maritime sector.

She is the first woman under the jurisdiction of China's Liaoning Maritime Safety Administration to obtain a Certificate of Competency for serving on ships engaged on Unlimited Navigation Areas, qualifying her to work on ships operating worldwide.

With more than 50 months of seagoing service, she progressed from cadet to Third Mate, Second Mate and now Teaching Chief Mate, demonstrating her dedication to pursuing a long-term maritime career.

Ms Yu holds a Magnetic Compass Adjuster Certificate and has conducted magnetic compass adjustments and corrections on more than 50 occasions, earning recognition for her technical expertise and professionalism in this highly specialized field.