By Monique Morrison*

In the dynamic landscape of Caribbean shipping, the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) has emerged as a pivotal force, advocating for gender diversity, and fostering inclusivity within the maritime industry.

As the maritime sector in the Caribbean continued to evolve, WISTA’s role in providing a platform for women professionals, particularly those in management. to thrive and contribute to the region’s maritime prosperity has become increasingly important. 

WISTA’s impact on Caribbean regional shipping has been multifaceted, spanning advocacy, networking, professional development, promotion, and collaboration. The Association serves as a beacon of advocacy, championing the cause of gender diversity and equality within the maritime domain. In the Caribbean, where traditional gender norms may prevail in some sectors, a WISTA chapter has the capacity to spearhead initiatives to challenge stereotypes; address wage disparities; and advocate for equal opportunities in maritime careers.

By raising awareness and promoting inclusive policies, WISTA fosters an environment in which women leaders can fully participate and excel. This is particularly important as many women across the world get into management roles and then come up against the proverbial “glass ceiling”.

Networking

WISTA provides international access networking opportunities for Caribbean women. Through its chapters and events, WISTA facilitates active interaction between women operating in various maritime roles, including ship captains, port managers and maritime lawyers. Such networking opportunities foster mentorship and knowledge exchange thus creating a supportive community in which women can readily share experiences, insights, and resources.

In the Caribbean milieu, where collaboration and cooperation are essential for success, WISTA’s networking platform enhances connectivity and synergy among maritime industry stakeholders even beyond our regional borders.

WISTA plays a crucial role in advancing the professional development of women in Caribbean regional shipping. By planning and delivering seminars, workshops, and training programmes, WISTA equips women with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to excel in their maritime careers. Whether it is navigating complex regulatory frameworks; honing leadership skills; or, leveraging emerging technologies, WISTA empowers women leaders to thrive in an ever-evolving maritime landscape.

In the Caribbean, where specialised expertise in areas such as port management and marine environment protection is increasingly important, WISTA’s access to international professional development initiatives fill critical gaps and enhance the region’s maritime capacity. Moreover, WISTA actively promotes Caribbean shipping on the global stage, showcasing the region’s strategic significance and competitive advantages. Through its international network and partnerships, WISTA amplifies the voice of Caribbean maritime professionals in advocacy for investment, trade, and collaboration opportunities. And, by highlighting the region’s modern infrastructure, geographic proximity to major trade routes and business-friendly policies, WISTA will over time attract attention and investment to the Caribbean, thus stimulating economic growth.

WISTA fosters collaboration and partnership among regional organizations and stakeholders in Caribbean regional shipping. By working closely with entities such as the Women in Maritime Association, Caribbean Shipping Association and the Association of Caribbean States, WISTA enhances coordination, shares best practices, and addresses common challenges facing the maritime industry. Through joint initiatives and projects, WISTA and its partners contribute to the resilience and sustainability of Caribbean regional shipping, ensuring its continued relevance and competitiveness in the global maritime sphere.

Transformative

WISTA’s presence in Caribbean regional shipping is significant and, ultimately, transformative. By championing gender diversity; fostering networking; advancing professional development; promoting the Caribbean region and facilitating collaboration, WISTA empowers women professionals and supports the resilience and competitiveness of Caribbean maritime industries. As the maritime sector continues to evolve, WISTA’s role as a catalyst for positive change will remain indispensable. 

* Monique N. Morrison, Attorney-at-Law, is Director of Marketing and Communications at WISTA Jamaica. morrisonlawjamaica@gmail.com.