The Za Ocean Racing Women’s Program is a bold, purpose-driven initiative designed to train, mentor, and launch more women into leadership roles in offshore sailing. Founded by Elizabeth Tucker, a former CFO who is now preparing to sail solo around the world, the program was created to dismantle the systemic barriers that have historically excluded women from meaningful participation and progression in the sport.

Through hands-on, high-performance training, the program selects 10 women each year to undertake an intensive schedule of technical modules including navigation, sail handling, meteorology, rigging, safety, and mental resilience. It culminates in a campaign to enter the iconic Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race with an all-female crew.

Beyond sailing, we aspire to shift culture by creating pathways for women not only on our own boat, First Light, but across the offshore community. With more than 90 women already applying, we are expanding access through our Za Allies initiative, connecting trained female sailors with safe, supportive boats across the country.

Our goal is simple but powerful: give women the training, confidence, and opportunity to take the helm, whether offshore, in leadership, or in life. This program is more than a campaign. It is a movement. And it is only just beginning.