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Podcast - Diversity, challenges and progression – two leaders in conversation on International Women’s Day 2021

As we continuously #ChooseToChallenge gender inequality across global maritime, two prominent industry leaders join us on International Women’s Day to share how they have built remarkable careers; their respective journeys to now and emphasise the importance of championing an industry with more equal opportunities.

As part of our brand-new Maritime Masterclass podcast series, Emma Howell, Director of Digital & Customer Development, Maritime – Informa, is joined by both Jasmin Fitche, Managing Partner of Fichte & Co and Despina Theodosiou, President, WISTA International and joint CEO of Tototheo Maritime for two fascinating conversations.

Fitche, who was named Personality of the Year at Seatrade Maritime Awards Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa 2018 and is current chair of the Dubai Maritime Advisory Council, cites there as being “no alternative” to her desire to join the legal profession. After studying law in both Hamburg and Southampton, Fitche opened Fitche & Co. in 2005, which has become a leading law firm in the Middle East.

“My advice to young people looking to make a career in law is to be determined. Think outside of the box, go the extra mile and don’t be afraid to have your voice heard,” says Fitche.

Theodosiou, who was recently re-elected for a second term as president of WISTA International and now counts 50 countries among its membership, has been persistently championing for gender quality across maritime and believes that shipping is becoming “more progressive”.

“The issues around diversity are not a battle - it’s more of an awakening,” says Theodosiou

“We are on the cusp of change due to new technologies and environmental challenges – we need diversity of thought to find new solutions and to innovate. We cannot have diversity in thought if there is no diversity in people. The industry is its people.”

 Both podcasts are available to listen to now, as part of The Maritime Podcast series and can be listened to on the players in this story.

Listen and subscribe to The Maritime Podcast for free in your podcast app of choice.

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