Source: New York Times
Lieutenant Commander Zimasa Mabela became the first African woman to take command of a navy vessel this week, taking the helm of the SAS Umhloti. “She will be taking over from Commander Brian Shor, who is currently the officer in commanding Sas Umhloti,” Lieutenant Obed Medupe told Eyewitness News, adding, “We are looking up at more women taking over commanding vessels.” Mabela got her start in the navy in 1999, when she joined as a telecommunications radio official. She told The South African that she hopes to be judged only on her ability to command, and not her gender.
Mabela will be at the helm of SAS Umhloti after taking over from the officer in charge, Commander Brian Shor.