Women in Marine Day success – inspiring and connecting women in the marine industry at the Southampton International Boat Show 2024

Women in Marine Day (Thursday 19 September) at the Southampton International Boat Show, sponsored by DF Capital, was once again a tremendous success, highlighting the powerful contributions of women in the marine industry and fostering connections, ideas, and pathways for future leaders.

The cornerstone of the day was the highly anticipated panel discussion titled ‘Empowering Tomorrow: Inspiring the Next Generation and Shaping Our Future’, hosted by Hollie Smith, Operations Director at Navis Consulting, Founder of Boatbuilding News and host of the popular Boatbuilding News: The Podcast.

Over 100 attendees, both women and men, gathered for the event onboard Blue Funnel’s mini cruise ship, the ‘Ocean Scene.’ The highlight of the day was a panel discussion led by an esteemed group of female leaders, including Debbie Hood, CEO of Enigma Powerboats; Gill Rodrigues, Director of International Partnerships for the International SeaKeepers Society; Abby Emery, Project Manager at Oyster Yachts; and Angela Goulding, Managing Director – Powersports at DF Capital.

Left to right: Gill Rodrigues and Abby Emery

The panel shared their expertise, insights, and vision for the future of women in the marine industry and engaged in lively discussions on the role of gender diversity in driving innovation, shared insights into their own leadership journeys, and explored strategies to mentor and support women at all stages of their marine careers.

Panellist Debbie Hood, CEO of Enigma Power Boats commented: “The panel was absolutely wonderful. It was fantastic to have such a diverse group of women, all in different roles, offering unique perspectives. Everyone brought something special to the table from various angles, and I loved that.

“For the next generation, my advice is to focus, believe, and you will achieve. Whatever you want in life, it’s attainable—but you have to stay focused and shut out any negativity. Pursue your dreams with intention: research, ask questions, and most importantly, make sure it’s something you’re passionate about. A long career should inspire and excite you every morning.”

Left to right: Debbie Wood and Angela Goulding

While Angela Goulding, Managing Director, DF Capital added: “It was truly an honour to be invited to be part of the panel. I was deeply inspired not only by my fellow panellists but also by the diversity and passion of the audience. The range of people, professions, and experiences across the marine industry was incredible to witness.”

Following the panel discussion, attendees participated in a vibrant networking session onboard. The atmosphere was filled with energy as professionals from all corners of the industry and women keen to enter the industry connected over a glass of fizz, further building relationships that will inspire and support each other for years to come.

When asked about the event, attendee Kate Moss from The Knot Agency commented: “Another successful Women in Marine event! It was fantastic to connect with a diverse group of professionals across the marine industry, all in different roles but united by the same message—working to bring more women into the industry.”

Lisa Anacora, Managing Director, Val Wyatt Marine added: “I absolutely love this event, and once again, it’s been a highlight of my year. I’ve been attending the Women in Marine events at the Southampton International Boat Show since they began, and I’m always grateful to those who organise them. What’s most special is the opportunity to connect with other women in the industry. It can feel isolating at times in such a male-dominated field, but being in a room full of determined, energetic, and passionate women is truly uplifting. The panel discussions are always insightful, offering fresh perspectives and sparking great conversations. I’ll definitely be back next year and can’t wait for it!”

In addition to the panel, the Foredeck Stage featured a dynamic lineup of speakers throughout the day, including four-time Paralympian and Triple World Champion, Hannah Stodel, who shared her inspirational sailing journey and the importance of inclusivity in boating, Rowan Wood, a young sailor with over 20,000 sea miles, added to the diverse and motivational series of talks that kept the audience captivated and She Flies who are redefining what it means to be a Woman in Sport as well as exploring the science behind the way Women learn and proving the unbelievable impact sport has on Women and Girls, when they have space to be bold and be courageous.