SIBS 2024: Women in Marine panel announced
The Southampton International Boat Show has announced the panellists for the panel and networking event on Women in Marine Day, which returns to the show on Thursday, 19 September 2024.
Women in Marine is supported by Marine Industry News, Barrus, Barton Marine and Haven Knox-Johnston. The event is sponsored by DF Capital.
This day-long celebration highlights the contributions of women in the marine industry and provides a platform for networking, inspiration, and professional growth.
The panel discussion and networking session is the cornerstone of Women in Marine Day. Entitled ‘Empowering Tomorrow: Inspiring the Next Generation and Shaping Our Future,’ the panel will discuss how gender diversity can drive better decision-making and innovation, highlighting successful case studies where female leadership has made an impact.
Additionally, the session will explore effective strategies for mentoring and supporting women at various stages of their careers, from students to top executives, ensuring a robust pipeline of talent and leadership for the future of the marine industry.
The panel is hosted by Hollie Smith, operations director at Navis Consulting, founder of Boatbuilding News and host of Boatbuilding News: The Podcast. The line-up of panellists includes:
Debbie Hood – CEO, Enigma Power Boats
Debbie Hood is the CEO and founder of Enigma Powerboats, based in Portsmouth, manufacturing 38-45 ft Super Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) for the luxury leisure, commercial, and military sectors.
The firm merges supercar design principles with marine engineering. This innovative approach has resulted in the creation of Enigma RIBs, renowned for safety, comfort, and cutting-edge aesthetics.
Gill Rodrigues – director at international partnerships, International SeaKeepers Society
Rodrigues has been with The International SeaKeepers Society since 2013, first based in Miami and now London. With over 20 years’ non-profit experience across ocean conservation, environmental research, and education, her skills include academic research initiatives, relationship building, and stewardship. Working closely with the private international yachting community, Rodrigues is director of international relations for SeaKeepers and heads up the UK/European office in London.
Her focus is on growing SeaKeepers’ existing relationships, creating new partnerships, and expanding SeaKeepers’ international reach. Previously, she worked with Florida International University within the College of Arts Science and Education and the ANGARI Foundation.
Abby Emery – project manager, Oyster Yachts
Emery has a wealth of experience within the marine industry having started her career as a deckhand on superyachts at just 19. She became a captain of 80ft+ yachts at just 26. After 12 years at sea, sailing over 120,000 nautical miles, it was time for her to set down some roots, so Emery transitioned to life on land.
Now a project manager at Oyster Yachts, she loves being able to use her extensive maritime knowledge and her exceptional people skills to help guide clients through the process of building their dream yachts. Emery is a staunch advocate for equal opportunities in the marine industry and has mentored and supported many women and minorities in pursuing similar goals.
Angela Goulding – managing director – powersports, DF Capital
Goulding brings over 18 years of experience in the financial and banking sectors to her role. She is responsible for the division’s full accountability and the management of relationships with dealer and manufacturer partners. Prior to joining DF Capital, Goulding was a strategic relationship manager for the European marine business line at Wells Fargo.
“We are delighted to have such a diverse and experienced group of women leading this year’s panel discussion”, says Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine, which organises Southampton International Boat Show. “Their collective expertise and insights will undoubtedly inspire and empower the next generation of marine industry professionals and is a testament to the significant strides we are making towards greater gender diversity and inclusivity within the sector.”
Immediately following the panel, there will be the opportunity to enjoy a glass of fizz and some nibbles and continue the conversations and connect with industry peers in an inspiring networking session.
This year the panel discussion and networking session (which is open to all), will take place onboard Blue Funnel’s mini cruise ship, the Ocean Scene. Boarding is at 4pm, with the discussion starting at 4.15pm. The boat returns to berth at around 5.15pm and the event ends at 6pm.
Registration for Women in Marine is now live on the SIBS website. Tickets to the show are sold separately.
Industry figures appearing on the Foredeck Stage
Throughout the day, Hollie Smith will also be hosting a series of talks from industry figures on the Foredeck Stage. The lineup includes four-time Paralympian (Sailing), triple world champion and motivational speaker and coach, Hannah Stodel. She will share her personal sailing experiences and her thoughts on inclusivity in boating.
Smith will also talk with Sophie Horne, founder and chair at SeaBird Technologies and head designer of the RaceBird, the race boat of the electric powerboat championship E1 Series, about her journey with Seabird and the launch of E1.
Rowan Wood will also join Smith. Wood, at the age of 18, has sailed over 20,000 sea miles with her family, from the Greek Islands in the Mediterranean to the Raja Ampat Islands in the Indo-Pacific Region. Rowan will speak about why it’s crucial we encourage the next generation to embrace the cruising lifestyle and how we can make it happen.
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