About WISTA Malta

The newly launched national branch dedicated to empowering women in maritime

Welcome to WISTA Malta, the newly launched national branch of the Women's International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA International) — a global organisation dedicated to empowering women in the maritime, trading, logistics, and related sectors.

Founded in 2025, WISTA Malta brings together female professionals and industry allies who are passionate about shaping a more inclusive and innovative maritime future. As part of the WISTA International network, which spans over 55 countries and thousands of members, we are united by a common goal: to champion gender diversity, foster professional development, and promote leadership at all levels of the maritime supply chain.

WISTA International: A Global Force for Change

Since its founding in 1974, WISTA International has grown into a powerful platform for connecting women in shipping and trading across the world. Recognised as a consultative body by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), WISTA International works with key stakeholders and institutions to support sustainable and inclusive growth in the maritime sector.

Through mentorship programmes, international conferences, policy advocacy, and cross-border cooperation, WISTA is actively reshaping the maritime narrative — ensuring women have a seat at the table and a voice in the decisions that move global trade forward.

Why WISTA Malta?

Malta's maritime legacy is as enduring as it is dynamic. Strategically located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta has been a centre for seafaring trade for millennia. Today, the country continues to play a critical role in global shipping, with one of the largest ship registries in the world, a sophisticated port infrastructure, and a regulatory environment aligned with international standards.

The Maltese flag, bearing the George Cross and the red-and-white national colours, symbolizes bravery, honour, and resilience — values that also inspire our mission at WISTA Malta. Just as the flag stands for the strength and spirit of the Maltese people, WISTA Malta stands for equity, advancement, and opportunity for all women navigating careers in this traditionally male-dominated industry.

By establishing a strong WISTA presence in Malta, we aim to:

  • Create a national platform for networking, mentorship, and collaboration among women in maritime and allied industries.
  • Promote professional development through workshops, events, and strategic partnerships with local and international stakeholders.
  • Support education and outreach initiatives that inspire the next generation of women to pursue careers in maritime, logistics, law, engineering, and shipping.
  • Represent Malta in global maritime discussions, contributing local perspectives to international efforts for gender equality and sectoral innovation.

Our Vision and Commitment

At WISTA Malta, we believe that diversity drives innovation and that empowering women is not just a matter of fairness, but a strategic imperative for the future of shipping and trade. We are committed to building a professional community where experience is shared, achievements are celebrated, and barriers are broken.

Whether you are a seasoned professional, a young graduate, or an organization seeking to support inclusive growth in the maritime world, we invite you to connect with us. Join our events, participate in our discussions, and be part of a global movement making waves for the right reasons.

Executive Committee

Alexia Fenech

Alexia Fenech

President

Claudia Vella Casagrande

Claudia Vella Casagrande

Secretary

Geraldine Spiteri

Geraldine Spiteri

Executive Member

Martina Farrugia

Martina Farrugia

Vice President

Pauline Micallef

Pauline Micallef

Treasurer

Founding Members

Alexia Fenech

Alexia Fenech

Andrea Cassar

Andrea Cassar

Angelique Abela

Angelique Abela

Claudia Vella Casagrande

Claudia Vella Casagrande

Geraldine Spiteri

Geraldine Spiteri

Laura Falzon

Laura Falzon

Lisa Camilleri

Lisa Camilleri

Martina Farrugia

Martina Farrugia

Pauline Micallef

Pauline Micallef

Suzanne Brincat Dowdall

Suzanne Brincat Dowdall