WISTA UK celebrates 50 years of championing diversity and inclusion
(Posted on 22/07/24)
The Women's International Shipping & Trading Association UK (WISTA UK) marked its 50th anniversary with a celebratory event highlighting five decades of progress and ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within the maritime industry. The event, which included an insightful conference and a grand evening reception, brought together industry leaders, members, and supporters to honour achievements and set the stage for future advancements.
The conference started with a welcome by Monica Kohli, President of WISTA UK, followed by a welcome address by His Excellency Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The first session, "Nurturing Diverse Voices in Maritime Media," focused on the role of media in helping women elevate their profiles. Discussions emphasised the importance of representation, including stories from all backgrounds, such as women, trans, and non-binary individuals. Panellists also explored women's challenges in the industry, particularly the fear of failure and stepping out of their comfort zones. They also highlighted the need to overcome these fears for personal and professional growth.
The second session, "ESG, to or not to be?" thoroughly examined the current state of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. The debate underscored the business sense behind ESG initiatives and the necessity for companies to report their progress to identify areas for improvement and demonstrate their advancements. The panel concluded that it doesn't matter whether we call it ESG or not; doing things right is the only way forward.
A presentation on decarbonisation by IMO and BP followed, offering a state-of-the-industry overview.
The third session, "Navigating Alternative Fuel Options for Decarbonisation Risks and Hazards – What's the Fuel?" this discussion highlighted future fuels and the industry's decarbonisation amidst evolving regulations like the EU ETS and FuelEU. The panel emphasised the need for accurate data and proactive planning in shipping's digitalisation. It concluded with a call for the IMO to provide global regulations on ESG, fuel standards, and reporting requirements.
The conference concluded with a closing address from Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping. He congratulated WISTA UK on their significant work in promoting maritime diversity. He discussed the ICS's efforts to bring more women into seafaring roles, especially given the predicted shortage of 90,000 seafarers.
At the evening reception, Monica Kohli reflected on WISTA UK's journey and milestones: "From our numerous successful events and mentoring programmes to our new focus on establishing regional events across the UK, we continue to expand our reach. This year, we will join the Women in Transport mentoring programme, which is set to formally launch in September. Additionally, we are actively seeking recruits and funding for our cadet sponsorship initiatives."
A key highlight of the evening was the IMO Secretary General's pledge not to participate in all-male panels, emphasising the importance of gender diversity. "Enhancing the role of women in everything that we do is essential. With continued support of all allies and the media, we can achieve even greater progress together."
The evening also celebrated the recipients of the prestigious WISTA UK's Women and Man of the Year awards. Nusrat Ghani was honoured as 'Woman of the Year' for her significant contributions to promoting diversity and inclusion in the maritime sector. Guy Platten received the 'Man of the Year' award, recognising his efforts to support and advocate for gender equality within the industry
Latest News
AtoB@C Shipping takes delivery of Fleximar
(Posted on 23/12/25)AtoB@C Shipping, a subsidiary of ESL Shipping, has announced the successful delivery of Fleximar, the... Read more
Western Bulk re-enters ship ownership with selected partners
(Posted on 18/12/25)Western Bulk, together with reputable Norwegian partners A/S J. Ludwig Mowinckels Rederi, Premium Maritime... Read more
Pacific Basin announces formation of a Sustainable Energy Solutions team
(Posted on 18/12/25)Pacific Basin Shipping Limited, one of the world’s leading dry bulk shipping companies, has announced... Read more
Columbia expects significant growth as more owners shift operations to the UAE
(Posted on 09/12/25)Columbia Group anticipates a period of strong expansion as an increasing number of international shipowners... Read more
Norse Ship Management emerges as digital leader among new-generation ship managers
(Posted on 09/12/25)Norse?Ship Management has expanded its use of Smart Ship Hub’s high frequency sensor data and... Read more
Maritime health experts welcome STCW amendments, but urge against checkbox compliance
(Posted on 09/12/25)As the maritime industry gears up to welcome the IMO’s STCW bullying and harassment training amendments... Read more
NORDEN acquires Southern African cargo activities of Taylor Maritime
(Posted on 02/12/25)NORDEN has acquired the cargo activities of Taylor Maritime in Southern Africa (previously operated... Read more
IMO delay could spark fragmentation risks, warns EmissionLink
(Posted on 02/12/25)Philippos Ioulianou, Managing Director of EmissionLink, has warned the IMO’s decision to delay... Read more
VIKAND highlights bullying and harassment as major mental health concern
(Posted on 02/12/25)VIKAND has highlighted the need for cultural change in the maritime sector as reports of bullying, harassment... Read more
DNV and WMMF guide to support shipowners' path to net-zero
(Posted on 24/11/25)The maritime industry is experiencing a period of significant transformation, driven by rapidly evolving... Read more
