WISTA AGM ratifies new definition of diversity and equity

(Posted on 31/10/23)

WISTA International, during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Montevideo, Uruguay, on 25 October 2023, ratified its fresh definition of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity in the maritime sector.

WISTA International is a global organization dedicated to promoting women in the maritime and trading industries, with over 3,800 members and a network of over 56 National WISTA Associations (NWAs) worldwide.

With a primary aim of empowering women and magnifying their role in the maritime domain, WISTA has set the stage for an even more inclusive future. "Diversity, to us, signifies the acknowledgement, respect, and valuation of individual differences," the statement read. The organization believes that championing diversity not only acknowledges the myriad backgrounds and experiences of its members but also serves as a catalyst for innovation, problem-solving, and sound decision-making.

Elpi Petraki, President of WISTA International, highlighted that equity remains at the core of their ethos. "Our concerted effort is towards ensuring fair treatment, access, and opportunities for everyone, irrespective of their unique identities. We are unyielding in our resolve to pinpoint and abolish any barriers that might have previously impeded full participation," she articulated.

WISTA's view on inclusion transcends mere representation. It's about nurturing an environment where everyone feels acknowledged and appreciated and their contributions are fully recognized. The essence of WISTA's DEI definition mirrors its unwavering dedication to cultivating a sector wherein diversity is championed, equity is achieved and inclusion becomes second nature within the maritime, trading, and yachting sectors.

WISTA International's definition of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), as tabled by the Diversity Committee, embodies our comprehensive approach towards creating a diverse, fair and inclusive environment in the maritime and trading sectors. Our understanding of diversity is to embrace various dimensions of identity, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, ability, sexual orientation, neurodiversity and age. While our primary focus remains empowering women and amplifying their voices in the maritime sector, we strive to foster an inclusive environment for all.

Diversity, for us, involves acknowledging, respecting and valuing each individual's differences. We are committed to creating a culture that celebrates diversity, recognizing that a diverse workforce drives innovation, increases profitability, problem-solving and decision-making.

Equity is central to our approach, advocating for fair treatment, access and opportunities for all. Our objective is to identify and eliminate barriers that have hindered full participation in the past and to ensure everyone, regardless of their unique identity, can thrive and reach their full potential.

We perceive inclusion as more than just representation. It involves fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and their contributions are recognized.

Our DEI definition encapsulates our dedication to creating an environment where diversity is celebrated, equity is realized, and inclusion is deeply ingrained into the fabric of the maritime, trading and logistics sectors.

Latest News

INTERCARGO highlights progress and priorities in bulk carrier safety

Bulk carrier safety continues to show steady long-term improvement, but the nature of risk facing seafarers... Read more

Norden raises full-year guidance following strong performance in dry cargo

Following stronger than expected operational performance in dry cargo, reduced costs associated with... Read more

Algoma announces refinancing of long-term debt

Algoma Central Corporation, a leading provider of marine transportation services, has announced that... Read more

Global maritime under threat from Fortibleed incident, warns Cydome

Major maritime, ports and energy companies have been identified by Cydome’s threat-intelligence... Read more

Crewing specialist expands global recruitment network with Indonesian seafarers

As the global shipping industry faces mounting concerns over future crew availability, Danica Crewing... Read more

IMO pauses evacuation in Strait of Hormuz following attack

Following an attack on a vessel in the Gulf of Oman, IMO has decided to temporarily pause its evacuation... Read more

Human cost of keeping world trade moving highlighted on Day of the Seafarer

Leading health and wellness platform OneCare Group is calling on shipping leaders to recognise the immense... Read more

Partnership to put seafarer wellbeing at heart of maritime safety

NorthStandard will partner maritime welfare charity Sailors’ Society to support seafarers&rsquo... Read more

IMCA urges focus on diver safety amid rising demand as Strait of Hormuz reopens

The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) has reminded vessel owners and operators of... Read more

Dark side of AI exposes maritime cyber training gap, warns SmartSea

AI is promising enormous benefits for the maritime industry. However, as shipping embraces digitalisation... Read more