Seaways Focus - October 2026
Celebrating our people
by John Lloyd FNI Chief Executive, The Nautical Institute
I have always believed it is important to recognise and celebrate success in any endeavour and maritime is no different. People want to be part of a growing success story; to work in an industry that is agile, adaptive and that is embracing technology and innovation. An industry that matters. Shipping – and most things in the maritime sector – are world-leaders in this regard, and it is good to see those things highlighted.
In this context I was pleased to attend a lunch in London celebrating Women in Maritime at the ‘Making Waves’ event hosted by The Seafarers’ Charity and the Sailors Society, and hear about the inspiring work done by women in senior roles throughout the maritime profession. Inspiring, but not surprising. I have worked with women at sea and in the maritime community for over 50 years. Their abilities and dedication are equal to their male counterparts, and we should make sure that the opportunities to make the most of those abilities are equal, too. I have also been pleased to offer public support to an initiative in the Philippines that seeks to recognise top maritime talent from the country through the Outstanding Maritime Students of the Philippines awards. The awards help celebrate success in all areas, not just the academic. The awards recognise individuals who are not only academically exceptional, but also socially responsible and motivated by core values that serve the maritime sector and those they work with. I have read the profiles of all this year’s finalists and every young man and woman has made their own impact on their place of study and work through social support, sporting activities, mentoring and help for others. Professionalism and voluntary service sitting side by side.
Attracting the best
These two events exemplify the capability and enthusiasm of which we have so much in the maritime industry. Yet too often, we undermine the confidence of our mariners by only shining a spotlight on things that are wrong, things that are negative and harmful about our industry. This is damaging.We want to attract great talent into our shipping community and ‘talking the industry down’ turns away some of that talent. We should instead celebrate with each other the great leaps forward the industry is making in several areas, while at the same time not losing sight of important welfare and personal factors which in many areas could still be better.
Extending our reach
We know the Philippines is the leading provider of seafarers globally and is home to many high-quality and well-respected training institutions delivering excellent outcomes. The Nautical Institute is working more closely than ever in this part of the world. For several months now, we have been supported by colleagues in and around Manila who have been processing membership applications and assisting with the administration of our Dynamic Positioning Certification processes.
On 29 October, we will be celebrating the presence of The Nautical Institute in the Philippines with a reception at the United Marine Training Centre where we will share news of our developments, and how we work closely with regulators such as MARINA (Maritime Industry Authority) at the IMO to argue for standards that continue to deliver safe maritime operations throughout the world. Please check the Events page on the website for further details. We would be delighted to see you there.
Finally, I have some organisational news which is also a cause for celebration.
From January 2027, we will be moving our Headquarters in London from Lambeth Road to premises in Tower Bridge Road, Bermondsey, London. It is a fabulous office in a superb location. I will provide further details of this exciting move next month