On Friday, May 17, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) celebrated International Day for Women in Maritime, marking a significant milestone in the journey towards gender equality within the sector. This year’s celebration is particularly special as it coincides with the presentation of the Gender Equality Award 2024, a prestigious recognition that honours outstanding contributions to people advancing gender equality in shipping.
The first Gender Equality Award by the IMO
The Gender Equality Award 2024 is a testament to the IMO’s commitment to promoting a gender balance and creating an inclusive environment in a historically male-dominated industry. This award not only celebrates the achievements of exceptional women in maritime but also acknowledges the efforts of organisations and individuals who have actively worked to break down barriers and create opportunities for women.
Rachel Lawton , treasurer, Jucilla Walters , Board member
The award aims to highlight and reward exemplary initiatives that foster gender diversity and inclusion. By shining a spotlight on these efforts, the IMO hopes to inspire more organisations and leaders to champion gender equity in maritime sectors worldwide. This award is part of a broader strategy by the IMO to promote Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
This first recipient of the Gender Equality Award is Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou, whose remarkable career and dedication to gender equity have set a new standard in the maritime industry. Despina, currently serving as the CEO of Tototheo Maritime and previously served as president of WISTA International, has been a trailblazer for women in maritime for more than two decades. Her leadership, advocacy for women’s rights, and mentorship programs have significantly increased female participation and retention in the maritime workforce.
At Portsmouth, 16 May 2024. With Commander of the base John Voyce, and Maritime UK CEO, Chris Shirling Rooke
Despina’s achievements include spearheading numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing the visibility and influence of women in maritime. Her efforts have not only empowered countless women to pursue and advance in maritime professions but have also raised awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusion in enhancing the shipping’s industry’s overall performance and innovation.
WISTA UK: a legacy of empowerment
The Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) UK has been at the forefront of advocating gender equality in the maritime industry since its inception in 1974. As a part of the global WISTA network – which spans 59 countries – WISTA UK focuses on empowering women in the marine and logistics sectors through networking, education, sponsorship and mentorship opportunities. Over the decades, WISTA UK has grown into a vibrant community of professionals who support each other in overcoming the unique challenges faced by women in maritime, and is run by women operating in different shipping segments and professions to enrich the association’s diverse thinking and initiatives.
WISTA UK’s President Monica Kohli comments: “It is inspiring to see the incredible strides that have been made towards gender equity in the maritime sector. The Gender Equality Award 2024 highlights the pivotal role that women play in shaping the future of our industry. At WISTA UK, we are dedicated to continuing our efforts to support, mentor and celebrate women in maritime. Together, we can create a more inclusive and dynamic maritime community. Congratulations especially to Despina – on being awarded the first gender Equality Award and putting WISTA on the world map. “
Celebratory events leading up to the International Day for Women in Maritime
In the lead up to the International Day for Women in Maritime, several notable events were held to celebrate and promote gender equity within the maritime sector:
On May 14, 2024, WISTA UK hosted a panel event with Trinity House and OCIMF focused on allyship, which we believe is central to achieving our goals. The event featured Captain Lee Clarke at Isle of Man Ship Registry, CEO Fran Collins at Red Funnel, Director Natalie Gull at Trinity House,
Director Saurabh Sachdeva at OCIMF, Gary Lincoln at Women in Transport, and Director Maritime Lola Fadina at Department of Transport. They discussed the value of having mentors and allies onboard vessels and onshore, sharing personal challenges and strategies for advancing gender equality. The panel discussions followed by networking opportunities with maritime professionals, industry leaders, government, lawyers and advocates for gender diversity.
On May 16, 2024, the Royal Navy and Maritime UK co-organised an event at the Portsmouth Royal Navy Base. This event included a tour of the base and sessions aimed at showcasing the roles and contributions of women in the Royal Navy and the wider maritime sector. WISTA UK presented on its history, initiatives and also upcoming events, in particular marking its 50-year anniversary with a summer conference and reception at the IMO in July 2024. The audience also heard from RNLI, which celebrates 200 years, and Safer Waves who work on providing seafarers with a safe space to voice their concerns.
The embassy of Finland also held a reception on 16 May, 2024 with a panel discussion and keynote speech on navigating challenging waters, focused on women working on specialised vessels and in maritime administration.
WISTA UK member and advocate Partner Claire Womersley at HFW, who is also Merchant Navy Medal Awardee was the keynote speaker. Along with Captain Pamela Makela at Viking line, Kirsi Ylarinne at ESL Shipping LTD, Miatta-Fatima Kromah at Liberian Registry, she also participated in the panel discussion on the challenges in getting women to join the merchant navy and more importantly to retain and nurture females within the sector. WISTA UK was referred to as an organisation that champions women in the sector. The panel also shared more information on WISTA UK’s latest initiative with the Maritime Educational Foundation (MEF) to fund five female seafarers while fostering an environment that supports women in various shipping segments.
Looking ahead
As we celebrate International Day for Women in Maritime 2024, it is essential to acknowledge the progress made and recognise that the journey towards gender equity is ongoing. The maritime industry must continue to challenge stereotypes, address biases, and implement policies that support women’s participation and advancement.
The Gender Equality Award serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dedication, innovation, and a collective commitment to equality. By continuing to champion these values, the maritime sector can unlock its full potential and ensure a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
This annual, international day is not just a celebration but a call to action. It is an opportunity for the industry to renew its commitment to gender equity and reinforce how empowering women is integral to the growth and sustainability of the maritime world. Let us continue to celebrate, support, and inspire the remarkable women who navigate the seas and shape the future of maritime.
