The 2020 Women in Shipping Summit took place virtually on Thursday 17 and Friday 18 September 2020. CJC Director Jacqueline Zalapa spoke on The evolution of our industry and where it should be headed next.

Billed as “explicitly, not exclusively for women”, the 2020 Women in Shipping Summit opened with a Welcome Address from Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, after which a variety of female speakers across the shipping sector gave insightful presentations. Presentations were followed by interactive audience Q&As.

Themes covered this year included Leadership, bias and what women want from their employers; Digital transformation in shipping and opportunities for diversity; and Laying the foundations of the inclusive workplace in shipping.

CJC Director Jacqueline Zalapa spoke on Day 2 with JD Rajan (Maersk) on The evolution of our industry and where it should be headed next. Jacqueline was also on the panel of a fascinating audience Q&A that followed, with the discussion centring on unconscious bias in the workplace and how men can be (better) advocates for women. There is certainly plenty of food for thought.

The virtual event was well-run with a mix of live presentations and on-demand content on the interactive platform, which also allowed for participation in live polling as well as networking. Despite Covid-19 forcing the Summit online it was a success, and we are looking forward to an even better Summit in 2021.