“WISTA is part a movement—a movement towards a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable maritime industry. And guess what? Whether you like or not, each and every one of you is a part of it. We’re breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and paving the way for a future where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive, which in turn has proven economically positive,” Monika Lemajic, WISTA Australia President, told guests at the recent Shipping Australia Port Kembla Luncheon, held last week.
Noting that, although WISTA is an acronym for “Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association”, she pointed out that, in Australia, the doors are “wide open to everyone”.
Ms Lemajic commented that although the industry is male-dominated, “that’s OK, it’s a starting point” and that “WISTA isn’t about pushing anyone out of the way; it’s about bringing more people in”. She added that WISTA is not just talk – over the last 18 months it has made a range of changes including amending its constitution to allow male memberships and embracing students. It has also forged partnerships with other organisations, signed Memoranda of Understandings and has been actively involved in making a difference and “not just asking everyone else what they are doing to contribute. It takes all of us and we are part of all of us,” she told guests.
Ms Lemajic also paid tribute to Shipping Australia’s CEO, Capt. Melwyn Noronha. “Now onto a leadership thought, I was told once by my mentor the true measure of leadership is the ability to positively influence someone whom you’ve never met. Which means our efforts aren’t just confined to the individuals within our immediate reach. By Melwyn asking me to speak today he is championing diversity, equality, and inclusivity and setting an example as a leader, a ripple effect that extends far beyond this room”.
WISTA Australia is part of a global network, with its parent organisation, WISTA International, is an advisory body to the IMO. WISTA International has over 4000 members across 59 countries, and has just over 200 members in Australia.
