IS THE concept of a women's shipping association sexist? This was a question raised by several readers in response to the recent launch of WISTA SA (Womens International Shipping and Trading Association, South Africa), to which the association replies as follows: Firstly, membership of WISTA is open to both men and women. The only criteria for membership are an involvement in the shipping or international trade industries at a management level, and a desire to promote and support the interests of women in these fields. Secondly, there is currently clearly a need for an organisation such as WISTA. In a male dominated environment such as shipping, it is inevitable that women experience certain difficulties just because they are different from men in certain respects (and not only physically). The problem is regrettably further compounded by the attitudes and prejudices which some people have against women. WISTA therefore aims to make the shipping industry a more comfortable place for women, both by giving support to its members who have already achieved considerable success in that industry, and by encouraging others to make their careers there. In reality, WISTA functions primarily as a networking platform for its members. With an international membership of over 500, opportunities abound for marketing and establishing contacts in the shipping and trading industries. This benefits the members, their businesses and the industries in which they operate. If you have any further queries or require any further information, please contact the current president of WISTA SA, Keren Giladi, at 031 3098290. WISTA SOUTH AFRICA
