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This Pride Month, Renz Duque, a deck cadet from the Philippines shared his message to inspire others. Through a journey marked by adversity and self-discovery, Duque has navigated the tumultuous waters of a male-dominated industry, overcoming rejection and discrimination to find a path illuminated by passion, courage, and pride.

I was once lost and anxious about facing a lot of rejections. I looked in the mirror and asked myself, “Will I be accepted by this male-dominated industry?” It has hindered me from being optimistic that I can choose whatever I may encounter working as a seafarer. Not until, I found a light that I had never seen before. This light has served as my guiding path to traverse the world with pride.

My journey onboard is like a rolling ship on a high seas inflicted by several forces. I have surpassed the storms of criticism, steered the perilous streams of uncertainty, and weathered the rage of discrimination. Despite these adversities, I persevered and was able to fortify my inner fortitude, resilience, and strength; and during these challenging times, I learned the true essence of courage, resilience, and self-love.

As I navigated the waters of change, progress, and development, I aim to hold and raise the rainbow flag so high that symbolizes pride, love, and unity. I aspire to inspire future generations with my unique story and be inspired by amazing people who make waves of change in transforming the seascape into a more inclusive and diverse world where everyone is free to be who they truly are.

This Pride Month, let’s inspire others and create a world of tolerance and acceptance where every LGBTQ+ seafarers can confidently and proudly set sail towards a future filled with pride and possibility. Happy Pride Month, from the depths of the ocean, and to the heights of the sky. May the colors of the rainbow shine bright and be reminded that love is boundless wherever the waves of life bring us.