Empowering Women in the Blue Economy: Learning, Innovation, and Reflection

These days provided practical tools, collaborative discussions, and inspirational stories aimed at equipping women with the skills and confidence to thrive in the maritime sector.

Learning Labs: From Theory to Practice

The second day was held at the Federazione del Mare in Palazzo Colonna, where participants engaged in interactive Learning Labs, covering sustainability, innovation, business development, communication, and career management. These sessions transformed policy discussions into actionable strategies.

Sustainability and Innovation in the Blue Economy

Pierpaolo Campostrini (CORILA) led a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities surrounding sustainable innovation. Key themes included:

• Barriers to Adoption: Fear of new technology, regulatory gaps, and conservative mindsets slow progress.
• Success Stories: Innovative projects like aquaculture feed from insects and algae, Scandinavian community marine gardens, and Tunisian women’s cooperatives repurposing waste showcased the potential of sustainability.
• Innovative Solutions: AI-driven smart fishing nets, satellite monitoring of illegal fishing, and digital twins for port efficiency were highlighted as game-changers.
• Culture Change: Funding, incentives, and stricter regulations are essential to push sustainability forward.

Business Plan Development

Leonardo Manzari (WestMED National Hub Italy) introduced participants to the fundamentals of business planning within the Blue Economy. Key takeaways included:

• The importance of balancing innovation with feasibility.
• The core components of a business plan, including cost structure, revenue projections, and market strategy.
• The need for industry benchmarking to measure success and disrupt outdated models effectively.

Communication Skills for the Blue Economy

Clara Bartra (Ivoro Ventures) led an engaging workshop on effective communication, crucial for securing investments and advancing in male-dominated industries. The session focused on:

• Bridging the Investment Gap: With only 2% of venture capital going to women-led startups, women must refine their pitching strategies.
• The Golden Circle Model: Start with ‘Why’ (purpose), then ‘How’ (process), and finally ‘What’ (result) to craft compelling narratives.
• Gendered Communication Styles: Women tend to be more collaborative and detail-oriented, while men focus on facts and long-term strategy. Adapting communication styles for different audiences can be an advantage.
• Practical Pitching Tips: Be direct, highlight achievements, maintain a confident posture, and handle interruptions assertively.

Blue Career Management

Celia Murcia (Blue-Jobs) wrapped up the day with a hands-on session guiding participants through self-reflection and goal setting. The workshop focused on:

• Career satisfaction assessments.
• Identifying growth opportunities and potential barriers.
• Developing actionable career advancement strategies.
• Encouraging cross-industry collaboration to break traditional barriers.

WIN-BIG Women’s Retreat: Finding and Owning Your Voice

The final day took a more introspective approach, fostering personal empowerment and connection among participants. Led by Lidia Lins, musician and voice activation coach, the Women’s Retreat started with an icebreaker session, where participants anonymously shared personal challenges in the Blue Economy. This exercise set the tone for a deeply reflective and transformative day.

Through guided meditation and vocal exercises, attendees were encouraged to step beyond their comfort zones culminating in a collective song that captured the spirit of resilience and ambition.

The event closed with inspirational story-sharing, an informal and fun photo shoot, and a reminder that this is just the beginning.

Looking Ahead

The WIN-BIG Mediterranean Event was a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and courage. From policy discussions to hands-on learning and personal empowerment, these three days proved that women are not just participants in the Blue Economy: they are leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

Now, it’s time to turn insights into action. Let’s continue building a more inclusive, sustainable, and diverse maritime industry.

 

Download the event photos here