WISTA Malta Summer Party 2026
Celebrating Community, Inclusion and Malta’s Place in the Global WISTA Network
WISTA Malta’s Summer Party was more than a networking event. It was a celebration of community, diversity, inclusion and Malta’s growing place within the global WISTA network.
The evening brought together members, sponsors, supporters, industry leaders, young professionals and friends of WISTA Malta for a memorable gathering dedicated to connection, collaboration and shared purpose. Set against the backdrop of Malta’s strong maritime identity, the event marked an important milestone in WISTA Malta’s journey following its acceptance as a National WISTA Association during the 2025 WISTA International AGM.
WISTA Malta was especially honoured to welcome Ms. Nazli Selek, WISTA International ExCo Member for the Middle East, Asia, Pacific Region, as Guest of Honour. Her presence in Malta was a meaningful reminder that WISTA Malta is part of a much wider international movement, connecting professionals across maritime, trade and logistics while working towards greater diversity, inclusion and gender equity across the industry.
During her keynote address, Ms. Selek reflected on WISTA’s journey over more than 50 years, from its humble beginnings to an international network of over 60 National WISTA Associations and more than 6,000 members worldwide. She highlighted the progress that has been made in increasing female participation across the sector, while also underlining that challenges remain, particularly around leadership progression, structural barriers, visibility, mentoring, professional development and long-term retention. Her message was clear: meaningful change requires continued collaboration, stronger networks, and more opportunities for women to be seen, supported and represented at every level of the maritime industry.
WISTA Malta President Capt. Alexia Fenech also addressed guests, reflecting on the purpose and mission of WISTA Malta. She spoke about the importance of creating a platform that connects professionals across Malta’s maritime sector, strengthens visibility, and brings together women, allies, students, young professionals, specialists and decision-makers in an open and accessible environment.
The Summer Party reflected exactly what WISTA Malta stands for: meaningful connections, open conversation, shared ambition and a strong belief in Malta’s future as a key maritime nation. It was an evening where relationships were strengthened, new introductions were made, and the energy of Malta’s maritime community was clearly felt.
WISTA Malta also extends its sincere thanks to WISTA International for its continued support and warm welcome into the global network. Being part of WISTA International allows WISTA Malta to connect local experience with international dialogue, ensuring that Malta’s voice and contribution are visible within the wider maritime community.
A heartfelt thank you goes to all those who joined us and helped make the evening such a success.
WISTA Malta is also deeply grateful to its sponsors and supporters, whose belief in our mission enables us to continue building a stronger, more inclusive and globally connected maritime community: Malta Shipbrokers International Ltd,MaritimeMT, Fenech & Fenech Advocates , Malta Freeport, Malta Maritime Pilots, Melita Marine Group, Sullivan Maritime, Tug Malta Ltd, AML Atlantis Management, Valletta Cruise Port, Valletta Gateway Terminals, ISTC, Grimaldi Marine Partners Ltd, Alkagesta, MMH Malta Ltd, Cassar Marine Group, NAS, Triton.
A special thank you also goes to the companies who so generously provided the lovely gifts for the evening, Vivian Group and El Medina. These thoughtful contributions added a special touch to the event and were greatly appreciated by our guests.
As WISTA Malta continues to grow, events like this remind us of the strength of community and the importance of creating spaces where professionals can meet, exchange ideas and support one another.
Here’s to community, collaboration and the next chapter for WISTA Malta.
