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Anna Kaparaki, a Lecturer in Maritime Law with LJMU’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology and Senior Solicitor with Mackinnons Solicitors LLP, attended the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) 2024 International AGM & Conference held in Limassol, Cyprus between 9 to 11 October 2024.*
Anna has proudly been a member of WISTA UK since 2016. Founded in 1974, WISTA UK is the oldest of all the National WISTA Associations. WISTA International, a global networking organisation dedicated to attracting and supporting women in the maritime, trading and logistics sector, now boasts 5,154 members across 62 National WISTA Associations (NWAs) with WISTA China, WISTA Honduras and WISTA Costa Rica being the most recent additions, announced during the Conference – an outstanding achievement for the Association.
This significant gathering brought together around 350 female professionals and attendees from the maritime industry, with a focus on fostering networking, knowledge sharing, and promoting gender diversity in this traditionally male-dominated sector. It was encouraging to see many male professionals from the shipping industry attending the event as well.
The WISTA International AGM & Conference 2024 agenda featured a series of keynote addresses, panel discussions and workshops from industry leaders, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Association. The event emphasized the crucial role women play in the maritime industry and provided a platform for discussing both the challenges and opportunities facing the sector today.
Key highlights included welcome addresses by His Excellency The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Nikos Christodoulides, Her Excellency The Deputy Minister of Shipping of the Republic of Cyprus, Ms Marina Hadjimanolis and the keynote address by the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Dominguez.
Panel discussions covered a wide range of topics, including advancements in maritime technology, environmental sustainability, the impact of socioeconomic challenges on international trade and the role of innovation in maritime. Digital transformation and energy transition were extensively explored, with participants discussing how these trends impact business strategies and workforce development. These discussions underscored the need for continuous adaptation in an ever-changing industry.
The event also provided abundant networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with industry peers, mentors, and leaders. Many attendees appreciated the supportive environment, which encouraged collaboration and shared learning. Discussions frequently centered around career development, with experienced professionals offering guidance to those new to the industry. These interactions not only helped build valuable relationships but also fostered a sense of community among women in maritime.
A particularly memorable moment for Anna was receiving the Certificate of Appreciation, presented to WISTA UK in recognition of 50 years of commitment and support for WISTA’s mission. This honour of WISTA UK was especially sentimental for Anna.
The recognition of women’s contributions to the maritime industry serves as a powerful motivator for young professionals aspiring to follow in their footsteps. Anna was pleased to see LJMU alumna, Ms Mabel Sumbong, who attended the event, representing WISTA Cameroon. Reflecting on this, Anna commented, “It is rewarding to see LJMU students inspired by their Tutors and following their lead. I am incredibly proud of Mabel’s professional development and achievements”.
The WISTA 2024 event in Limassol, Cyprus, was a significant milestone in promoting gender diversity and empowerment within the maritime industry. Anna’s participation underscores the LJMU’s commitment, through its maritime programmes, to engage with industry challenges and contribute to the development of future maritime leaders. The insights shared and connections made during this event will undoubtedly have a lasting impact, fostering a more inclusive and innovative maritime sector. As the industry continues to evolve, initiatives like WISTA play a crucial role in shaping a future where women are equally represented and their contributions valued.
Anna extends her heartfelt thanks to the President of WISTA International, Ms Elpi Petraki and the WISTA International Executive Committee members, Ms Jemilat Jawulaa Mahamah, Ms Connie Roozen, Ms Nazli Selek, Ms Raimah Chowdhury, Ms Dafne Anghelidis, for their tireless efforts in supporting and promoting WISTA’s mission globally. Special thanks also go to the President of WISTA Cyprus, Ms Natalia Bury Loyal, and the Board members, Uta Steffen, Georgia Demetriou, Monica Potsou, Maria Theodosiou, Emmanolia Kolias, Rafaella Yiangou and Korina Christoforou for organising an impeccable event at the stunning Amathus Beach Hotel in Limassol, Cyprus.
Feeling grateful, inspired and energised by her experience at the conference, Anna is eager to continue supporting WISTA’s mission and inspiring the next generation of female maritime leaders. She looks forward to the upcoming WISTA International AGMs & Conferences in Barcelona in 2025 and Malaysia in 2026.
*Extracts of this coverage have been uploaded at LJMU webpage.
