Association of Sail Training Organisations appoints vice president
Nusrat Ghani.
The Association of Sail Training Organisations (ASTO) has appointed Nusrat Ghani MP as its new vice president.
ASTO is the UK member body for sail training charities. Ghani is currently the deputy speaker of the House of Commons, chair of ways and means, and MP for Sussex and Weald. Elected in 2015, she was the first woman to represent the seat. As shipping and maritime minister, she introduced the UK’s Maritime2050 strategy, setting out long-term policy for the maritime sector.
In 2024, more than 11,000 young people and individuals with disabilities and additional needs participated in residential sailing experiences run by ASTO’s 31 member charities.
Mark Todd, ASTO’s chair of trustees, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Ms Ghani to the team and are excited for what lies ahead for ASTO with all the expertise and experience she brings. It was important to us to have someone with a huge passion for the maritime world and positive change, which we’re confident Nusrat will support us with.”
Ghani has also held the role of minister of state for Europe at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, with responsibilities covering the UK–EU relationship, national security and critical minerals.
Ghani says: “As a constituency MP, I’ve worked closely with people living with both visible and invisible disabilities. I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact these challenges can have on physical and mental wellbeing.
“I’m fully committed to supporting ASTO and championing the vital work its members do with young people and those with disabilities. I have a huge amount of enthusiasm for the maritime and sailing sector, and I’m passionate about being a strong advocate for both young people and the organisation in my role as vice president.”
