(LONDON) — WISTA International (Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association) elected Elpi Petraki as its president at the group’s annual general meeting Wednesday in Geneva, Switzerland.
The nominees for the position Petraki of WISTA Hellas and Alexandra Anagnostis-Irons of WISTA USA.
WISTA International consists of 56 National WISTA Associations (NWAs). Each one is represented by the president or a delegate at the annual general meeting who cast their vote for their country’s choice for president.
“I am truly honored to have been elected as president of WISTA International,” said Petraki, operations, chartering and business development manager at ENEA Management. “Diversity and inclusion in maritime have never been in the spotlight like today and (while) much has been achieved in recent times, there is still a great deal to be done. WISTA International has a powerful voice that must be heard, continuing to raise awareness for the incredible contribution women make to the industry.
“I look forward to working with the WISTA NWAs and other international bodies to address how our organization can support evolving objectives – such as decarbonization, digitalization and attracting new talent – and provide equal and equitable opportunities for all,” she continued.
The former president of WISTA International, Despina Theodosiou, with a five-year term and two consecutive mandates between 2017-2022, received a standing ovation at the meeting. Following the new president’s announcement, she addressed the WISTA members and spoke about some of the highlights during her time as president.
“After five years, the time has come for me to hang up my hat as president of WISTA International,” Theodosiou said. “First, I’d like to say a huge thank you to the other members of the WISTA International Executive Committee, who have provided a tremendous amount of support over the years. Secondly, I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to the presidents of the 56 National WISTA Associations for entrusting me to continue to deliver WISTA’s mission. It has been a pleasure to work with you all.”
– WISTA International
