ICOMIA and IFBSO formalise diversity strategy through joint industry committee

The global recreational marine industry has taken a significant step towards improving representation, with two influential organisations joining forces to tackle diversity and inclusion on an international scale. Announced during a milestone year for ICOMIA, a new agreement signals a growing recognition that the industry’s future success depends on attracting talent from a broader range of backgrounds.

New committee targets broader industry participation

The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) and the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO) have strengthened their longstanding partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a joint Diversity and Inclusion Committee.

The agreement was signed during the recent ICOMIA/IFBSO Congress in Washington, DC (hosted by NMMA) which also celebrated ICOMIA’s 60th anniversary. The MOU formalises a shared commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion across the global recreational marine industry through closer collaboration between the two organisations.

ICOMIA and IFBSO have worked together for decades, most visibly through their annual congress. The new committee builds on that successful relationship by bringing together the expertise, networks, resources and collective influence of both organisations to promote greater diversity and representation throughout the sector.

Industry leaders say collaboration will drive greater impact

The committee will be co-chaired by Sarah Wallbank on behalf of ICOMIA and Patricia Becker on behalf of IFBSO, with a focus on encouraging broader participation in the marine industry, particularly among women, younger professionals and individuals from backgrounds that have historically been underrepresented.

“We are excited about this MOU, which further strengthens the relationship between IFBSO and ICOMIA,” says Veda Pretorius, executive manager of IFBSO. “Collaboration is the key to industry growth. By combining our efforts through a joint Diversity and Inclusion Committee, we can have a greater impact and help build a more diverse, innovative and future-proof marine industry.”

Wallbank, co-chair of the IFBSO–ICOMIA Diversity and Inclusion Committee representing ICOMIA, says she has long-championed harmonisation. “Our industry achieves the greatest impact when organisations work together rather than in isolation. This MOU is a practical example of that philosophy in action.

“By aligning the efforts of IFBSO and ICOMIA, we can share knowledge, avoid duplication and achieve far more together than we could individually. I am delighted to be working alongside Patricia, Veda and the wider committee and I am confident that together we can make a positive and lasting impact, helping to build a more diverse, innovative and sustainable marine industry.”