WIME Awards Amplifies Women Inclusion In Maritime, Energy Sectors
THE 2024 edition of Women in Maritime and Energy ( WIME) Awards has enhanced the call for women inclusion in maritime and energy sectors, even as it availed a platform where leading industry amazons share their inspirations and commitments.
The Awards, which was in its third edition, was held recently at Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
It was an evening of glitz and glamour as several women earlier identified and nominated in the maritime and energy sectors were decorated and appreciated for their various contributions in advancing the course of the sector, even as speakers inspired more women to attain greatness in maritime and energy sectors at the event.
In her keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer ( CEO) of Adelaar Energy, Mrs. Grace Orife, encouraged women to show competence, capacity and resilience in being the best at their positions.
Orife, who is a Board member of the Africa Energy Chamber, recalled how she was identified by a woman who supported her, calling on women to support and build other women.
She noted that the he- for- shes are equally important, stressing that “when you show capacity, men will not hesitate to recommend or refer you for the role.” During the fireside chat tagged, ‘ Inspire Inclusion: Investing in Women and Accelerating Progress’, four women from both sectors explored issues on gender equality and inclusion, ranging from cultural, family barriers to political and religious inhibitions. The interactive session also gave an opportunity for the participants to draw lessons from the discussant’s personal experiences.
Board Chairperson, WIME Awards, Mrs. Chizoba Anyika, joined the global call for qualified women to be given more management positions in line with the 2024 theme for the International Women’s Day – ‘ Inspire Inclusion’.
Anyika emphasised that this year’s theme is at the core of WIME Awards, which encourages upcoming leaders by projecting leading sectoral women who have become a compass for others.
Her words: “This year’s campaign theme underscores the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality and calls for action to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes and create environments where all women are valued and respected.”
Winners of the awards include former Director of the International Maritime Organisation’s Technical Cooperation Division, Mrs. Monica Mbanefo, who bagged the Trailblazer in Maritime Excellence Award; Mrs. Adedoyin Rhodes- Vivour, who received the Outstanding Woman in Maritime ( Arbitration) Award for leadership and advancement in Maritime Law and Arbitration in the Maritime industry; and former Port Manager, Lagos Port Complex Apapa, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Bolanle Olotu, who received the outstanding Woman in Maritime ( Port Operations) Award.