Diversity in Maritime Conference and Events Panel Pledge

The Diversity in Maritime Conference and Events Panel Pledge has been established to ensure that maritime events are inclusive and conferences have diverse panels. 

The absence of women and diverse panels is a problem. Because speakers are usually male, audiences are given an exclusive perspective. The lack of diversity limits the quality of the conversation. Moreover, when visible role models are male, absence of women perpetuates absence of women. Fewer women choose to speak, and fewer are chosen. Compounding this problem is that without the opportunity to serve on panels women lack profile-building opportunities, which is an important contributor to experience and recognition.

This is a problem in the UK maritime sector and needs addressing. We believe that gender imbalance at events is entirely solvable and the opportunity for improving is awaiting widespread sign-up and to further ensure it is solvable we have created the Speaker Bank

We are calling on maritime organisations to get involved as:

  • Diversity in Maritime Panel Pledge Champion: for a maritime organisation and/or conference and event organisation who demonstrates diverse panels and inclusive events.
  • Diversity in Maritime Panel Pledge Advocate: for a maritime organisation and/or conference and event organisation who is committed diverse panels and inclusive events.
  • Diversity in Maritime Panel Pledge Signatory: for a maritime organisation or business who is committed to supporting and sharing the Pledge internally and externally. We empower you 'to call it out' and if you are invited to speak at a panel or event that does not reflect diversity to share the Speaker Bank.

Get involved below!