Seeing, Being, Thriving WISTA Malta Breakfast Event

The maritime industry is often characterized by its vast horizons and traditional structures, but a recent gathering in Malta proved that its future is being shaped by a new wave of collaborative leadership. WISTA Malta recently hosted a breakfast event titled “Women in Maritime: Seeing Them, Being Them and Thriving in the Industry,” bringing together a diverse group of professionals to discuss the evolution of the sector and the women driving it forward. Sponsored by MCConsult & Associates, the morning served as both a strategic forum and a masterclass in professional mentorship.

The event kicked off with a high-level panel discussion featuring some of the industry’s most respected voices, including Ann Fenech, Miriam Camilleri, Renee Laiviera and Martyn Griffiths. The conversation delved deep into the realities of career progression, highlighting that while the industry has made strides, the path to long-term growth requires a combination of individual resilience and systemic support.

The New Definition of Leadership

One of the most poignant moments of the morning came from Miriam Camilleri, who reflected on the true essence of influence by sharing a quote from Dr. Stephen Brown: “You are not a leader until you have produced another leader who can produce another leader.” This sentiment resonated strongly with the audience, shifting the definition of success from personal accolades to the ability to empower others. The consensus among the room was clear: true leadership isn’t about being the smartest person in the room; it is measured by how many “rooms” a leader has prepared others to step into and lead with confidence.

Building on this theme of empowerment, Ann Fenech addressed the often-difficult balance between a high-stakes maritime career and personal life. She emphasized that trust is the foundation of sustainability. For many professionals, the instinct is to carry the weight of responsibility alone, but Fenech argued that learning to delegate and trusting support systems, both in the office and at home, is the only way to make a career in maritime viable in the long run. Without this trust, the demands of the industry risk becoming unsustainable for even the most dedicated individuals.

From Reflection to Actionable Policy

The event was designed to be more than just a series of talks; it was a collaborative workshop. Following the panel, participants broke into smaller groups to tackle the practical barriers facing women in the sector today. These reflections focused on what can be improved at a policy and industry level to ensure fairness and inclusion.

Key discussions centered on the need for better childcare support and more flexible workplace structures that accommodate the shifting priorities of modern professionals. Participants also addressed the weight of social expectations and the importance of creating practical solutions that allow for growth without sacrificing personal well-being. This grassroots approach to policy reflection highlighted WISTA Malta’s role not just as a networking group, but as a platform for genuine industry advocacy.

Confidence as the Foundation for Growth

Despite the complex external challenges discussed, a singular internal message stood out: the fundamental power of self-belief. The speakers and participants collectively agreed that growth begins the moment an individual recognizes their own capabilities and truly believes in them. In an industry as demanding as maritime, this internal confidence acts as the catalyst for taking on new challenges and navigating the unique hurdles that come with the territory.

As the morning concluded with a vibrant networking session, the sense of unity was palpable. What was once a relatively unknown organization to many just a year ago has transformed into a vital community for mentorship and role modeling. By spending the morning together, these outstanding professionals were reminded that while their individual experiences are unique, their mission is shared. Through unity and mutual support, WISTA Malta continues to prove that building each other up is the most effective way to navigate the challenges of tomorrow’s maritime landscape.