Wista Norway

Ingelin Grimsæth has been awarded the prestigious WISTA Norway Leadership Award 2024. The award was presented during Arendalsuka last Monday the 12^th of August 2024, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the maritime industry and her exemplary leadership.

Stine Mundal praised Ingelin’s achievements, stating;

“Ingelin Grimsæth is a true role model in our industry. She puts important issues on the agenda, promoting policies that make our industry more inclusive and attractive to people at different stages of their lives. Her leadership and advocacy are driving positive change and setting new standards for inclusivity and support, and we are proud to honor her with this award.”

In recognition of her fearless leadership, Ingelin was also presented with a picture of the iconic “Fearless Girl” statue in New York. This statue symbolizes courage and the willingness to stand up for what is right, qualities that Ingelin embodies in her work.

Ingelin Grimsæth has been a driving force behind the modernization of parental leave rights for both female and male seafarers in Norway. Her efforts have led to more equitable and supportive policies, ensuring that more seafarers can balance their professional and personal lives more effectively. This type of initiative are instrumental in promoting gender equality and improving the working conditions within the maritime sector.

In addition to her work on parental leave rights, Ingelin is a passionate ambassador for LGBT+ inclusion in the maritime industry. She has been actively involved in advocating for a more inclusive and supportive environment for LGBT+ individuals, helping to foster a culture of diversity and acceptance.

She has also spearheaded the Norwegian Maritime Officers’ Association’s commitment to the WISTA Norway “40 by 30” initiative.

Grimsæth is described as an impatient force for improvements in equality within a highly male-dominated industry. She is known for delivering concrete results and is not afraid to tackle difficult subjects.

Expressing her gratitude, Ingelin Grimsæth said;

“I am deeply honored to receive this award from WISTA Norway. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and commitment of me, my organizations and the support of the maritime community. I look forward to continuing our efforts to drive positive change and awareness in the industry.”

Ingelin’s fearless approach to leadership has inspired many in the maritime community. She often shares anecdotes about facing challenges head-on and encourages others to be bold in their pursuits. Her fearless attitude has not only driven her success but has also paved the way for others to follow.

WISTA Norway (Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association) is dedicated to promoting diversity and empowering women in the maritime sector. The Leadership Award is one of the organization’s key initiatives to recognize and celebrate outstanding leaders.

The WISTA Norway Leadership Award is handed out every year to an individual in the Norwegian maritime industry who best represents WISTA core values: Professional, Dynamic, Open-minded and dedicated to gender equality in the maritime industry. In addition, the recipient must have contributed to the development of the industry through enhancing competencies and/or developing innovative products or solutions. Candidates for the award are presented to the members of WISTA Norway during the Annual General Meeting and are selected by vote. Nominees can be both men and women.

This year marks the 18th edition of the award.