"Wind in their Sails: Leaders in Ocean Spaces"

OVERVIEW.

What puts the wind in your sails?

Women of the Arctic (WoA), the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (APECS), and Women in Polar Science (WiPS) have teamed up to offer a workshop that brings together a diverse group of ocean leaders from across the Arctic.

Oceans, seas, and coastal areas cover seventy percent of our planet forming an essential component of the Earth’s ecosystem. They are not only critical to sustainable development — providing a wealth of benefits for human well-being such as food, transportation, climate regulation, livelihood, and recreation — but are also undergoing significant changes, both globally and in the Arctic.

Our speakers have each carved their own unique paths in the ocean space - from research to artistic pursuits, marine management to sailing. They will share some of their different approaches and concrete actions in reaction to the rapidly changing Arctic and ocean environments through presentations and an interactive panel discussion. Success comes from a wide range of skill sets, and our speakers demonstrate that you do not need to fit a specific mold to succeed, and instead can shape your life and career around what matters to you most - the things that put the wind in your sails.

In 2017, the UN General Assembly Resolution ‘Our Ocean, Our Future: Call to Action’ highlighted “the importance of gender equality and the crucial role of women in the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.” In line with this call to action, we aim to specifically shine a spotlight on women who are taking the lead in the Arctic marine space.

This side event will include a version of WiPS’ exhibition “People Doing Cool Stuff – Women in Polar Science”.

We explicitly welcome attendees of all genders. Early career individuals still charting their professional course are particularly encouraged to attend, but the event will be thought provoking and inspiring for all.