WISTA International has created a new Associate Membership category to enable companies, institutions, and energy organizations to formally support its mission for gender diversity. The tier is open to entities with a multi-country presence operating in sectors like maritime, shipping, and logistics, allowing them to nominate up to three representatives. To encourage participation, WISTA is offering complementary membership through December 31, 2026, for all applications submitted before the year’s end.
LONDON, UK | September 28, 2026 – WISTA International has announced the creation of a brand-new Associate Membership category, marking a significant strategic expansion designed to broaden opportunities for organizations to join, support, and collaborate with the global WISTA community.
Tailored specifically for companies, institutions, and corporate entities that champion WISTA’s mission but previously lacked a pathway to join via a National WISTA Association (NWA), this new tier establishes a formal framework to support the maritime, energy, and logistics industries’ leading force for advancing gender diversity and inclusion.
Bridging the Gap in Global Collaboration
Speaking on the launch, WISTA International President Elpi Petraki emphasized the growing demand from industry stakeholders eager to formally align with the organization.
“Over the last few years there has been an increase in interest from organizations that would like to formally support WISTA, but under the current membership structure, there was not always a corporate membership option available, as memberships are managed by individual NWAs,” stated Petraki.
“Broader collaboration with those sharing our vision is critical when tackling diversity and inclusion, as there is no one size fits all approach. Different countries face different challenges. Our hope is that this new membership level will enhance accessibility to WISTA’s growing international network and strengthen our relationship with partners across the maritime industry.”
Eligibility and Key Benefits
The new Associate Membership category has been structured to accommodate a wide array of stakeholders operating across critical global supply chains and heavy industries, including:
- Maritime and Shipping
- Marine Energy and Bunkering
- Trading and Logistics
- Transport and Port Operations
To qualify for the Associate tier, applying entities must demonstrate a clear alignment with WISTA’s core mission of empowering women in maritime and energy, alongside maintaining an active presence in at least two countries.
Mirroring the privileges extended to individual and corporate members within WISTA’s traditional framework, approved associate member organizations will be permitted to nominate up to three representatives to actively participate in NWA activities, network, and contribute to global initiatives.
Special Incentive
To kickstart momentum for the new tier, WISTA International has introduced a special promotional incentive. Any qualifying organization that submits an application to become an associate member before December 31, 2026, will receive complementary membership through the end of the year.
How to Apply
Organizations interested in seizing this opportunity to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within the maritime, shipping, and energy sectors can review comprehensive eligibility criteria and submit applications directly via the WISTA International Associate Membership Portal.
About WISTA International
WISTA International, formed in 1974, is a global organization connecting executives and decision-makers across the maritime, shipping, and trading sectors. It serves as a vital network for more than 6,500 professionals worldwide.
Today, National WISTA Associations (NWAs) are active in 60 countries, providing in-country and regional networking, skill-building opportunities, corporate visibility, and key industry relationships. Each NWA is a member of WISTA International, which guides and collaborates with national associations to uphold shared values and achieve the strategic objectives agreed upon at the organization’s Annual General Meeting.
Source: WISTA