As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s essential to recognise and honour the many achievements of women in all sectors, including the maritime industry. Women have started to make significant contributions to the industry despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles.
With over 35 years of experience working in various roles and as the founder and managing director of Image Line Communications, a leading PR and marketing agency specialising in maritime, logistics and supply chain sectors, I am proud to participate in this movement. As the immediate past chair of Maritime UK’s Women in Maritime Taskforce and WISTA UK, I have become a respected voice and advocate for women in the maritime industry. But there is still much more to be achieved!
It’s crucial to ensure that women’s achievements are recognised and given the credit they deserve. We need to celebrate their successes and their contributions to the industry. It’s important to remember that the maritime industry is for everyone.
However, there is still a significant amount of work that needs to be done to ensure women are given equal opportunities and recognition in this sector. We must shift the language from equality to equity as they are not synonyms. Equality is treating everyone the same, regardless of their circumstances, needs or differences where everyone has the same opportunities, rights and access to resources. Equity, on the other hand, involves taking into account the differences among people and providing them with what they need to achieve equal outcomes.
Let’s work together to create a more inclusive and diverse maritime industry that benefits us all. By providing equity, we can ensure everyone has the same opportunities and can contribute their skills and talents to the industry. Let’s continue to build a safer, more accessible and more equitable world through the maritime industry and celebrate the achievements of women on this International Women’s Day.
