IBIA Annual Convention- Athens 2024: A Triumph of Collaboration and Innovation
Global Head of Events Tahra Sergeant celebrates the success of this year’s gathering, highlighting inspiring dialogue, connections, and future plans
The IBIA Annual Convention in Athens has been an extraordinary success, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we have achieved together.
This year, we saw an inspiring gathering of industry leaders, engaged delegates and influential speakers, all coming together to share insights, spark new ideas, and drive our industry forward. Athens provided a stunning backdrop, and it was clear that our industry’s spirit of collaboration and innovation was stronger than ever.
Our programme featured powerful speakers, including Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Christos Stylianides, and US Ambassador George J Tsunis, who reminded us of the significance of sustainability and global cooperation in the bunker and shipping industry. These keynote speeches set the tone for an impactful two days of dialogue, with meaningful conversations on the future of bunkering, alternative fuels and environmental responsibility.
A highlight for many was the glamorous gala evening at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, sponsored by Peninsula. The setting was truly magical, with views of Athens’ iconic skyline and a delightful meal that brought our community together in a memorable way. Moments like these underscore the importance of in-person connection and reinforce the value of these gatherings.
This year’s Convention was only possible thanks to the incredible support of our sponsors, supporting associations, media partners, supporters, delegates and speakers. Each played an essential role in making this event a success and I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to you all.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
Special appreciation goes to our Events Working Group, made up of IBIA Board Members and Secretariat, for ensuring our programmes are both information-rich and highly relevant.
Reflecting on 2024, I can confidently say this has been a year of remarkable achievements for IBIA. We are already looking to 2025 with excitement, building on this success to reach even greater heights. As I always say, this is only the beginning of what’s possible when we come together with purpose and passion.
Upcoming IBIA Events
The momentum continues with our Annual Dinner in London this February, where we welcome: Platinum Sponsor – The Hawks, Gold sponsors – Arte Bunkering, Pema, and Sohar, and Silver sponsors – GPS, Cockett, and ExxonMobil. This promises to be another memorable gathering, with all the elegance and camaraderie we’ve come to cherish at our London dinners.
We are also excited for our Asia Dinner in March 2025, and planning is underway
for events in the Middle East, Africa,
and the Americas.
Each of these events offers fresh opportunities for connection and innovation, and I’m looking forward to seeing even more of our industry engaged around the world.
As we wrap up an amazing year, I wish all our members and industry a joyful festive season. Thank you for your continuous support and dedication. Here’s to a brilliant 2025 filled with even more successes and milestones for IBIA and our industry.
Warm regards,
Tahra Sergeant
Regional Manager (Africa)
& Global Head, Events
tahra.sergeant@ibia.net