Fourteen women were honoured for their achievements and contributions to the maritime sector during the inaugural Gala and awards ceremony hosted by the Women in Maritime Association Caribbean (WiMAC) – Guyana Chapter, held Friday at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.
The event, themed “An Ocean of Opportunities for Women: Anchoring Excellence,” brought together leading voices in maritime to celebrate women working locally and internationally in the sector. It recognised their commitment to excellence and continuous development.
According to a release, nominations opened in April 2025 across 14 award categories. The 2025 awardees were: Romona Arthur – Maritime Leadership Award; Briony Tiwarie-Gabriel – Executive of the Year; Nalini Jamuna – Port Management Excellence Award; Sabita Sookdeo – Outstanding Female Ship Captain; Dawn Maison – Sustainable Maritime Champion; Donnette Streete – Blue Economy Advocate; Shania Stewart – STEM in Maritime Award; Annette Arjoon-Martins – Mentor of the Year; Miranda Thakur-Deen – Diversity & Inclusion Champion; Coleen Denyse Abrams – Maritime Educator of the Year; Rebecca Samuels – Exemplary Seafarer Award; Sherry-Ann Wilson – Maritime Safety Advocate; Keisha Hack – Shipping & Logistics Innovator; and Kerensa Bart – Women-Owned Maritime Business Award.
The Executive Council of WiMAC also recognised Thandi McAllister as Maritime Ambassador for her advocacy and excellence in maritime stewardship.
WiMAC–Guyana President Katina Benn said in her opening remarks, “This Gala is more than a celebration, it is a statement of intent. We are here to honour the resilience, intellect and leadership of women in maritime, while actively creating space for the next generation of female professionals. WiMAC–Guyana is steadfast in its commitment to building a more inclusive, visible and empowered maritime workforce.”
Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill
attended the event and congratulated the awardees. He reaffirmed government’s support for gender equity and development in the maritime industry. “The establishment of the national WiMAC Guyana chapter, which serves as the voice for women in our local maritime sector, and actively seeks opportunities for women is something that must be applauded,” he said.
Nominees were assessed based on active employment in the sector, demonstrated impact in their field, and between two to five years of professional experience.
The keynote address was delivered by Jamaican legal scholar and maritime governance expert Dr. Deniece M. Aiken, who is also President of WISTA-Jamaica.
“Let every step you take be purposeful, you belong in this industry and your voice matters,” she said. “To the awardees, thank you for your courage and resilience. You remind us of what is possible when determination meets opportunity. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.”
Since its inception, WiMAC–Guyana has advocated for equal opportunities for women in the maritime sector through capacity building, training, and increased visibility. The awards ceremony reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for women to lead, innovate, and thrive.
The event was supported by sponsors and partners including the Guyana Maritime Administration Department, International Register of Shipping, El Dorado Offshore, Caribbean Shipping Ltd., C&V Shipping Ltd., Muneshwers Shipping, BK Marine, SBM Offshore Guyana, John Fernandes Ltd., and Tropical Shipping.
WiMAC–Guyana extended gratitude to all sponsors, stakeholders, and maritime community members for making the inaugural event a success.
WiMAC President, Katina Benn
