WISTA Africa Conference | Women in Shipping

7th WISTA Africa Conference

“Turning the Tide: Towards Effective Regional Co-operation to Optimize Economic Growth”

31 July - 2 August 2024

9 AM - 4:30 PM
UCT Graduate School of Business Conference Centre

Welcome to the 7th WISTA Africa Conference event site. We're excited to extend our invitation to this upcoming event, where industry experts and leaders convene. Join us for a unique opportunity to network with stakeholders and National WISTA Associations from across Africa, alongside industry players and other key participants. Together, we'll engage in discussions on strategies to promote diversity, equality, and inclusion, while also collaborating to advance regional inclusivity and drive economic and environmental impact. Find all the information you need right here on our event site. We look forward to seeing you there!

Overview

Foreward

WISTA is a global networking association for women in leadership and management roles in the maritime industry. It was established in 1974 and is active in 56 countries with over 4000 members. It holds consultative status with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and in July 2023, WISTA was granted Observer Status by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This exceptional recognition authorizes WISTA to appoint representatives to actively participate in the public inter-governmental meetings organized by UNCTAD. WISTA South Africa was reconstituted in April 2019 and is a registered Non-Profit Company with a Board of Directors. As part of the global WISTA International Network, WISTA South Africa has been invited to host the 7th WISTA Africa Conference in Cape Town in 2024. Opportunities for strategic partnership and sponsorship have been created for leading industry role players to align with the regional maritime leadership event, positioning their brands and marketing their organizations effectively in the process.

Event Description

The WISTA Africa Conference is a regional event that brings together women from many African countries. It is marketed not only to established National WISTA Associations in Angola, Cameroon, Ghana, Morocco, and Nigeria – but also through other regional organizations such as Women in Maritime Africa (WIMAfrica) as well as Women in Maritime Eastern and Southern Africa (WOMESA) and the International Ports & Harbours Association (IAPHA). It is also marketed through the WISTA International network.

The 2019 WISTA Africa Conference was hosted by WISTA Ghana and co-incided with a visit to that country by the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization. Delegates from countries including Sierra Leone, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Tanzania, Angola, Nigeria, South Africa, Togo, and Gabon attended, amongst others. WISTA Ghana received significant funding from the Government as sponsorship for the event.

The WISTA Africa Conference traditionally welcomes approximately 150 local and international delegates representing maritime authorities, port authorities, shippers, agents, business owners, maritime lawyers, maritime media, government authorities and other leaders in the sector.

Benefits of South Africa as a Host

Significant opportunity to position WISTA South Africa as an influencer and thought leader in the South African maritime industry, adding value to members and non-members, as well as sponsors.

Significant marketing opportunity for attendees and sponsors to expand their professional and business networks on the continent and with government and private organisations.

Thought leadership through a comprehensive programme of relevant presentations and discussions on issues impacting the relevant maritime, shipping and trading industry, regionally and globally.

Thought leadership through relevant panel discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing women in the sector and strategies for driving inclusivity and ensuring economic impact - case studies of success, lessons learnt and personal testimonies.

Our Objectives

Promotion of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion

To promote women in shipping across Africa.

Collaboration

To address common challenges and harness shared strengths.

Strategy

To adopt strategies to drive regional inclusivity and create economic impact.

Respectful Environment

To foster an environment of respect, acceptance, and inclusion for all participants, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.

Agenda

Day 1

Wednesday 31 July

10:30 - 14:30: Delegate Registration
14:30: Delegates depart for SA Agulhas II Tour
15:00 - 16:30: SA Agulhas II Tour
16:30: Transport Delegates from SA Agulhas II back to Hotel
17:30: Transport Delegates from Hotel to Norton Rose Fulbright
18:00 - 19:30: Networking Cocktail

Dress code
Day: Smart Casual
Evening cocktail: Cocktail

Day 2

Thursday 1 August

Morning Session

08:30 - 09:00: Tea and Coffee/ Registration

09:00 - 09:10: Program Director Introduction - Ms Lulama Mtembu (SAMSA) and Ms Tahra Sergeant (IBIA)
09:10 - 09:20: National Anthem - Lawhill Choir
09:20- 09:35: Welcome by WISTA SA President - Adv Amsha Gengan

09:35- 9:50: WISTA International President Address - Ms Elpi Petraki

9:50 - 9:55: Arsenio Dominguez - IMO Secretary General
9:55- 10:05: Acting CEO TNPA (WOMESA) - Adv Phyllis Difeto

10:05- 10:20: WISTA International Secretary - Ms Jemilat Mahamah

10:20 - 10:30: Dr Natalie Scheepers - SAMSA
10:30 - 11:00: Coffee break sponsored by AMSOL
11:00 - 11:50: Panel discussion: “Where to from here? Strategies to progress DEI in the maritime industry” - Mr Dan Ngakane, Cpt Ann Pletschke, Ms Mpho Monyane, and Ms Sylvia Asana Dauda Owu, moderated by Ms Clare Gomes
11:50 - 12:40: Panel discussion: “Promoting Maritime education and training through collaborative innovation ecosystems: A regional perspective” - Dr Cristina Dragomir, Dr Odunayo Ani, Ms Eva Maloi, Ms Debbie Owen, moderated by Dr Nomtha Hadi
12:40 - 12:55: Keynote Address - Ambassador Nancy Karigithu
12:55 - 13:05: Launch of African Shipowners Association; South African Chapter - Ms Funmi Folorunso
13:05 - 13:50: Lunch

Afternoon Session

13:50 - 14:00: Address by Ms Ondrilla Fernandes (International Chamber of Shipping UK)
14:00 - 14:45: Legal Panel Discussion: “Navigating Legal Waters: Seafarers' Rights and Crew Issues” - Ms Sheena Dias, Mr Neil Chetty, Ms Tracey Shearer and Cpt Mike Melly, moderated by Ms Anneke Whelan
14:45 - 15:15: Keynote Address - Captain Nick Sloane (Salvage around Africa)
15:15 - 16:00: Panel Discussion: “Regional Cooperation for Sustained Development of Africa’s Blue Economy” - Adv Thembelihle, Ms Tsepiso Taoana-Mashiloane and Ms Rebecca Hlabatau, Ms Hermoine Manuel moderated by Ms Zola Nkowane
16:00 - 16:10: Youngship SA - Miss Nonqaba Bengu

16:10- 16:15: Close & Vote of thanks
16:15 - 16:45: Afternoon Tea
18:00: Transport Delegates from Conference Centre to Simons at Groot Constantia Wine Estate, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town, 7806
18:45 - 22:30: Dinner and awards at Simons

Day 3

Friday 2 August

09:30: Transport Delegates from hotel to Spier, Stellenbosch
10:15: Arrive at Spier Wine Farm for tea/to view the grounds, relax, or enjoy a wine tasting
11:45: Depart Spier for Babylonstoren
12:15: Arrive at Babylonstoren
12:15 - 15:00: ‘Free time' to explore Babylonstoren. Option to enjoy a wine tasting, a delicious lunch, do a cellar tour, relax, or take a stroll through the estate's art galleries and explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and walking trails
15:00: Transport Delegates from Babylonstoren to Cape Town, reminiscing about the day's memorable experiences and scenic views
16:15: Arrive back at hotel in Cape Town

Dress code:
Casual with comfortable walking shoes and a lightweight and warm jacket

Dress code
Day: Business
Evening dinner: Black Tie

Additional Tips

Around July / August in Cape Town, you can expect mild winter weather with temperatures averaging between 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F). While Cape Town's winter months are generally cool and wet, August tends to be drier compared to earlier in the season. However, it's essential to be prepared for sudden changes in weather, including rain and wind, especially along the coast and around the Cape Peninsula. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, so layering is key to staying comfortable throughout the day. A waterproof jacket or windbreaker, a warm sweater or fleece, and sturdy, comfortable footwear are essential items to pack for your excursions.

In addition to your clothing layers and comfortable footwear for day 3, consider packing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun, as even in winter, UV exposure can be significant, especially near the coast. Don't forget to bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Additionally, a small backpack or daypack is handy for carrying your belongings, along with a camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking views and memorable moments along the way. With the right gear, you'll be ready to embark on a memorable adventure around the stunning landscapes of the Cape.

Visa's

Please note that a Visa is required for delegates from the following countries: Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon and Morocco. Greek delegates do not require a Visa to enter South Africa. This information does not constitute official advice, please consult with your relevant consulate or embassy to confirm same.

Speakers

Panels

Panel Announcement “Navigating Legal Waters Seafarers' Rights and Crew Issues”.png

EVENT PHOTOS

Click the link below to view the photos from the 7th WISTA Africa Conference, captured by Siyabonga Sokhela.

PHOTO ALBUM

Sponsorship Packages

Please contact us on wistaafrica7@gmail for tailormade Sponsorship Packages should none of the above fit you or your company's goal. For more information on sponsorship opportunities and how your company can make a lasting impact, please get in touch with us.

Supporting Associations

Accommodation

The official partner for the 7th WISTA Africa Conference is the Protea Hotel. Contact Chrystal Geduld via email (crystal.geduld@proteahotels.com) if you have any queries.

We also recommend the Table Bay Hotel, Commodore Hotel, The Portswood Hotel or Hedge House B&B. See contact details below: