WISTA Norway sees surge in membership amid renewed focus on ‘breaking stereotypes’

The Norwegian chapter of WISTA (Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association) recently held its Annual General Meeting in Oslo at the office of law firm Thommessen, with over 50 members attending in person and a record number of proxy votes. Five board positions were elected from a record total of 13 candidates present.

Capt. Jaquelyn Burton, EMBA, AFNI, Director of Experience Design at Kongsberg Maritime, was selected as President and is both the first non-Norwegian and Master Mariner to hold the role in the organisation’s 37-year history. Her sailing career spanned 13 years, mainly on LNG, FSRUs and car carriers, latterly as chief officer.

Maren Lodden of Grieg Maritime Group was selected as Vice President, while both Samantha M Digre of Molgas Energy Group and Paloma Menino Drønen of Odfjell Drilling joined for the first time. Agnes Mathiesen was re-elected for a second term, with Sarah Soon Arnhus, Jenny Bettina Malkenes and Michela Sasdelli continuing as board members.

The elections were historic in that it is the first time WISTA Norway has elected two male board members. Per Martin Tanggaard, who was the first male member of WISTA Norway, and Stian Haugland, who has been a stalwart supporter of its ’40 by 30′ campaign launched in 2022 as a tool to promote gender balance in maritime leadership, follow in the footsteps of Hans Christian Seim, who was the first and only male board member a few years ago.

“Opinions may differ but I truly believe we need men on the board to act not only as advocates but also as active facilitators of opportunities in those spaces where there are few women today. This is crucial to move towards the industry we want to have that is inclusive, respectful and engaging,” said Burton.

Haugland is like Burton a Master Mariner, bringing the count of former seafarers on the board to four, including Menino Drønen, who is a former deck officer, and Mathiesen who previously worked as a purser on cruise ships. “I’m proud of the fact that it’s likely the most hands-on sailing experience ever represented in WISTA Norway’s leadership,” Burton added.

On behalf of the association she also extended her gratitude to past President Stine Mundal and Vice President Emilie Falch for their six years of dedicated service, as well as to outgoing board members Therese Landås and Henriette Kästel Bergesen.

WISTA Norway events tackle critical industry topics and drive serious discussions to attract the best talent. “People will not be drawn to an industry they cannot see, and they will not stay in an industry that does not include them or provide equal opportunities. Breaking stereotypes is not just important, it is urgent to ensure a sustainable and competitive future for an industry that is vital for world trade,” said Burton. “Maritime has to position itself as an exciting and innovative field. Achieving gender balance is not only a moral and ethical imperative, it is a strategic necessity. We have to cultivate a culture that people want to be part of. To be included we must be inclusive.”

During 2024, WISTA Norway maintained its strong focus on promoting diversity, education and networking. More companies signed up to the ’40 by 30′ campaign to reach 38 signatories. One hundred and thirty-eight new members joined the association, which now counts 500-plus members, 6% of whom are males. The association now represents around 10% of the global WISTA community of 5,154 individual members across 62 national WISTA entities.

The organisation is well-positioned to continue expanding its reach, impact and advocacy efforts to foster a vibrant and inclusive maritime industry. The focus is on building a strong, connected community that drives meaningful change. “Regrettably some companies are choosing to reverse course on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), so for us it is crucial to emphasise that talent exists across all demographics,” said Burton. “Extending opportunities, fostering collaboration and demonstrating inclusion through visible competence, networking and high-level knowledge sharing will enable us to build balanced leadership for the future.”