by Mathilde Bittaudeau
March 8th was a day to celebrate women worldwide and the perfect occasion for the first in-person WISTA UK event of the year. Hosted at the London offices of Stephenson Hardwood, the event brought together women and men from different backgrounds and parts of the UK, to celebrate their achievements and empower one another.
Guest speaker, Lisa McAuliffe, Dy SOSREP Maritime Intervention and Salvage, from Aberdeen, kicked off the event with an inspiring speech titled ‘Don’t be afraid to ask’. The Deputy to the SOSREP told the tale of a woman’s courage to ask for help in times of crisis. The story of, not only a devoted professional, but also a mother, a rugby coach, and a woman with her own struggles, resonated with many in the room and let to a post speech discussion on the underlying issues and also the impact on the pandemic and working from home in changing work perceptions.
The event was filled with professional discussions on the latest advancements in the world of shipping, but also uplifting conversations and laughs. Members were able to have open conversations on the different struggles that certain women ( and men) may have faced in their private and professional lives and how employers have, at times, stepped up to ensure that their employees were not only heard but listened to.Stephenson Hardwood were perfect hosts providing everyone with a warm welcome, delicious food, inventive cocktails and flowers for every woman at the event on their special day.
It is important to remember that, like many areas of work in 2022, the world of shipping and trade is still fairly male-dominated. It is for this reason that events such as WISTA UK’s celebration of women at Stephenson Harwood, this March, are important. Bringing women and men together to empower each other and reflect on the personal and general milestones that have been achieved in this field is a crucial part of the process.
WISTA is an international networking organization whose mission is to attract and support women, at the management level, and also women starting out in the maritime, trading and logistics sectors. The Association’s aim is pursued by promoting diversity in these sectors and empowering women to lead through their unique perspective and competencies, with the conviction that gender diversity is key in providing a sustainable future for the shipping industry internationally.WISTA UK consistently welcomes new members who share its vision and values. Attending events would be a chance for prospective members to familiarize themselves with the workings of WISTA UK.
The upcoming events organized by the Association are: Masterclass on how to Raise your Profile (April 6 at 16:00) (webinar) ; In person – Quadrant Chambers – Poonam Melwani QC (April 27 at 17.00) and Women in Shipping (12 May at 17.00 – Hosted by HFW).
