Celebrating Women in Maritime: WISTA South Africa Women’s Month Gathering

On 29 August 2025, the historic Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town set the stage for a powerful celebration of women in the maritime sector. Organised by WISTA South Africa as part of South Africa’s Women’s Month, the gathering brought together an impressive cross-section of the industry to honour progress, reflect on achievements, and continue the conversation around diversity and inclusion in shipping.

The room was filled with representatives from across the South African shipping and maritime community, with a vibrant mix of organisations taking part. From recruiters and training institutes such as EQ8 Recruit, SAIMI and Lawhill Maritime Centre, to leading industry players including AMSOL, Steinweg Marine and Dan-Bunkering, the support demonstrated the breadth and depth of the sector’s commitment to gender balance. Associations and networks including WISTA South Africa, WOMESA, MaritimeEMpowerher and IBIA – The International Bunker Industry Association – joined voices with international bodies such as the IMO, reinforcing the importance of working collaboratively to create an inclusive future.

The afternoon was guided by MC Tahra Sergeant, IBIA’s Regional Manager for Africa and Global Head of Events, who spoke of her own journey in maritime and the trailblazers who paved the way for women in the sector. She acknowledged the pivotal role of Clare Gomes in founding WISTA South Africa and reflected on IBIA’s own achievements in representation, with women comprising almost 40% of its Board and 65% of its Secretariat – a striking contrast to the global average of just 2% of the seafaring workforce.

The programme featured inspiring addresses from two leading voices. Amsha Gengan, Advocate of the High Court and Chair of WISTA South Africa, emphasised the importance of collaboration, equity, and mentorship in shaping future leaders, reminding the audience that gender equality requires not only targeted interventions but also strong male allies. This was followed by the keynote address from Mariana Noceti of the International Maritime Organization. As the driving force behind the IMO’s Women in Maritime Programme, she underscored how empowering women with skills and opportunities directly strengthens safety, innovation and sustainability across the industry.

What made the afternoon truly special was the sense of shared purpose that filled the room. The maritime sector is often portrayed as slow to change, yet this event was a clear demonstration that South Africa is at the forefront of progress, leading by example and embracing inclusivity as a driver of growth. From industry stalwarts to emerging professionals, the voices present showed that momentum is building – and that it will take the combined efforts of all stakeholders to carry it forward.

IBIA was proud to stand alongside WISTA South Africa and the wider community in marking this occasion. With the support of Tshwani Automotive Special Economic Zone and the active participation of so many organisations, the celebration was more than a symbolic gesture. It was a tangible commitment to building an industry where women are not only present but play an active role in shaping the future of maritime.