Gender Ministry Applauds WiMAC’S 10 Years of Driving Maritime Growth and Regional Integration

The Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport has commended the Women in Maritime Association, Caribbean (WiMAC), on its 10th anniversary, for its contributions to development and reform, support for regional integration, commitment to professionalism and promotion of sustainable industry growth.

Speaking during WiMAC’s 10th Anniversary Dinner and Induction Ceremony at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston on Tuesday (May 13), Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dean-Roy Bernard congratulated the organisation on its milestone achievement.

“This is indeed a milestone that is worthy of celebration. Over the last decade, WiMAC has been a transformative force, uniting over 60 female maritime professionals across the Caribbean in a shared mission – to increase the performance, participation and contribution of women in the maritime sector,” he said.

Mr. Bernard contended that WiMAC’s mission to foster the development, participation and empowerment of women in maritime and contribute to the growth of the industry in the region is visionary and vital for the Caribbean’s transformation.

“This includes lobbying for gender-responsive policy and legislative change, conducting primary research and industry reporting, contributing to a code of conduct for maritime operations, and creating dynamic spaces for mentorship, networking and knowledge exchange,” the Permanent Secretary explained.

He further emphasised that the Association’s extensive reach and impact demonstrate its strong commitment to creating and expanding access and opportunities through exposure to global best practices and mentorship.

Mr. Bernard noted that WiMAC members enjoy access to a global network of women in maritime, as well as decision-making spaces where gender equality, equity and professional development converge.

He added that these efforts have strengthened the members’ capabilities and contributed to the development of more inclusive policies and programmes in the maritime sector throughout the Caribbean.

WiMAC is the seventh regional Association, established under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), to promote the professional and economic development of women in the Caribbean maritime sector.

The Association held its inaugural meeting in Montego Bay in April 2015.