WISTA UK is dedicated to advancing the role of women in the maritime, trading and logistics sectors. As an association founded 51 years ago, WISTA UK empowers women by providing opportunities for professional development, knowledge sharing, networking and mentorship. WISTA UK’s mission is to inspire, connect, and support women to reach their fullest potential in industries traditionally dominated by men. Importantly, WISTA UK channels the importance of allyship and having men and women work together, with the notion that diverse thinking and gender diversity is essential to ensuring a sustainable future for the international shipping industry.
WISTA UK actively engages with influential figures, including key shipping personnel and companies, governing bodies, and the UK to promote diversity and equality in the sector. Recent engagements with Arsenio Dominguez, the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Maritime Minister Mike Kane MP (Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Security), Gemma Griffin, Vice President & Head of Global Crewing at DFDS, Karen Davies, Managing Director at OCIMF who joined us for our WISTA 51st Anniversary Black Tie Dinner. As speakers at our event, they each spoke on the challenges still faced by women in the shipping industry, as well as the progress made, the opportunities available, and the people and associations like WISTA UK that are driving change.
More recently, WISTA UK board members and distinguished guests were also invited to join Florence King, Mayoress of London, for lunch at Mansion House where we each had the opportunity to share our story and together reflect on the progress made on diversity in shipping and the continued challenges we face. In addition, WISTA UK also collaborates regularly with other UK-based associations, including Maritime UK, UK Chamber of Shipping, Maritime London, UK Parliament, Department for Transport of the Government of the UK, as well as many maritime-based companies as event partners, sponsors and allies. These engagements not only bring attention to the importance of gender equality but also foster collaboration between leaders and organisations working toward inclusive growth and diversity.
A core part of WISTA UK’s success lies in the importance of allyship and mentorship. WISTA UK has partnered with Women in Transport for its Advance 2025 mentoring programme to open this opportunity to our members. While women play an essential role in driving progress, the association acknowledges that men also have a vital role to play. Allies, especially men in leadership positions, can create inclusive environments by supporting women in their careers, providing mentorship, and advocating for equal opportunities. Through these partnerships, WISTA UK continues to break down barriers and build a stronger, more diverse industry for future generations.
The success of WISTA UK would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of the women behind the association. Their leadership, vision and commitment to promoting gender equality in transport and maritime are truly inspiring. As WISTA UK continues to grow, the organisation remains dedicated to inspiring change and empowering women at every level.
WISTA UK wants to ensure women have opportunities both at sea and onshore, which reiterates the importance of advocacy, leadership and allyship in diversifying the sector. WISTA UK is fundraising to sponsor a female cadet for the Maritime London Office Cadet Scholarship (MLOCS. Please donate by clicking here.
Our partnership packages are a flexible and accessible way to support Women in Transport and your organisation's equity, diversity and inclusion objectives. Learn more about our partnership opportunities here and contact us if you would like a meeting to discuss how we can work together.
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