The secret to Silvia Prinque's inspirational leadership style
Silvia Prinque, born and raised in Peru, now thrives as a Cargo Control Manager at Hapag-Lloyd’s office in Viña del Mar, Chile. Her journey is one of adaptation, and leadership, shaped by her Peruvian roots and a deep passion for her work. No wonder her colleagues have chosen her as one of the most inspiring women at Hapag-Lloyd.
When Silvia moved to Chile nearly two years ago, she faced the daunting challenge of being far from her family for the first time. “At the beginning, it was very difficult at first,” she admits. “In Peru, I lived with my mother, my brother, and my dog. Moving here meant starting from scratch – no family, no support system.” But when Silvia had the opportunity to join the Cargo Control team in Viña del Mar, she did not hesitate. She always remembered what her mother used to say: “For a better life, I would even leave my home.” Whenever she felt down, she drew strength from that, and in time, she found a new sense of belonging. “I have found my second family here in Chile and have also adapted professionally as well.”
Rising through the ranks
Silvia’s journey in the freight industry began nearly eight years ago as a Sales Coordinator trainee. “I loved the shipping industry from day one,” she recalls. Her ambition, talent and determination quickly set her apart. They led her to her current role as Trade Management Cargo Control Manager for Latin America - Europe, where she makes sure the safety, efficiency and compliance of cargo operations. This position also marked her debut as a team leader – a milestone she embraced with confidence and support. She knew she had the skills – she just needed the chance. “It was my current boss, who believed in my potential and gave me this opportunity.” The result is a high-performing team that Silvia affectionately describes as more than just colleagues: “We are true friends.”
The influence of her Peruvian heritage
As a leader, Silvia brings her unique blend of personal values and cultural background to her work. “Peruvians are affectionate, charismatic, communicative, and sensitive,” she says. For her these traits have been instrumental in creating a positive team dynamic. “I always make sure my team members are emotionally well. Treating others as I would like to be treated has strengthened our bond.” Her detail-oriented and creative nature adds another dimension to her leadership. Silvia often surprises her team with small gestures to lift their spirits, breaking the monotony of daily routine and bringing a smile to their faces. For Silvia, great leadership is about leading with empathy and genuine care for others' well-being – a philosophy that guides her daily interactions, defines her approach to building meaningful relationships and she roots back to her cultural heritage.
Breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry
Being a young Peruvian woman in a managerial role in Chile came with its challenges, especially in a male-dominated industry. Silvia reflects on the initial difficulties of working with experienced male colleagues, particularly sailors. “It was not just a cultural difference – it is something many women face in this field. It is hard to explain,” she shares. Drawing strength from her upbringing and her mother’s wisdom, Silvia approached the situation with patience and connection. “My mother’s words reminded me to face challenges head-on and persevere. I relied on these qualities to connect with my colleagues,” Silvia explains. "Day by day, as we worked together, we built trust. They got to know me as a person, and I got to know them. Today, they are allies, and we trust and respect each other." Silvia’s ability to foster understanding and mutual respect turned initial scepticism into lasting camaraderie – an outcome she attributes not only to her professional efforts but also to the values instilled in her by her family and culture.
A beacon of positivity
Silvia’s energy and optimism have made her a standout figure in Hapag-Lloyd – she was chosen by colleagues as one of the most inspiring women of the region Latin America. She credits her positive outlook to her love for her work and team. “The energy I have reflects the love I have for my job and the team I am port of. That is what fuels my energy and keeps me going.”Silvia Prinque’s journey from Peru to Chile is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of authentic leadership. Her story is an inspiration not only to women in the shipping industry but to those who strive to turn challenges into opportunities.
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