The IMRF proudly hosted its inaugural Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Seminar on 26 November 2024 in Thessaloniki, Greece. With over 45 participants from 26 organisations spanning 16 countries, the event provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions and practical insights into the role of EDI in maritime search and rescue (SAR). The seminar marked a significant milestone in the IMRF’s ongoing efforts to promote EDI within the SAR sector, reflecting a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse SAR community worldwide.

Click here to view all the photos from the EDI Seminar.

The seminar opened with welcoming remarks from Cia Sjöstedt, Trustee of the IMRF and Chair of the Seminar, who set the stage for discussions on advancing inclusivity in SAR operations globally. Caroline Jupe, CEO of the IMRF, followed by highlighting the progress of the IMRF’s EDI initiatives, including the #WomenInSAR programme. She also shared insights from her personal EDI journey, emphasising the importance of inclusivity for the future of the SAR sector.

David Mosimabale, a Senior Transformation Change Manager, addressed the global challenges surrounding equality, diversity, and inclusion, using engaging concepts to inspire new mindsets and improved outcomes in SAR organisations. Jaakko Heikkilä, the IMRF’s International Programme Manager, presented the results of the 2024 IMRF EDI survey, shedding light on the areas of focus, such as gender diversity, while acknowledging ongoing challenges.

The seminar also featured insightful case studies from organisations taking progressive steps towards inclusivity. Phil Bostock, Head of International Liaison at HM Coastguard, UK, shared the agency’s journey in increasing diversity in leadership and workforce, while Captain Mohammed Drissi, Head of the Moroccan SAR Service, outlined African efforts to promote gender inclusion in SAR through recruitment drives, specialised training, and regional collaboration. Darren Schott, Deputy Commissioner of Marine Rescue New South Wales, discussed initiatives to increase diversity within MRNSW, such as targeted recruitment, hybrid work opportunities, and promoting women in leadership roles.

A key moment of the seminar was the panel discussion, chaired by Cia Sjöstedt, which featured insights on the challenges and successes of implementing EDI principles in SAR organisations. The panel explored the cultural and resource-based barriers to inclusion and shared best practices for fostering a more inclusive SAR environment.

In the afternoon, two interactive workshops were facilitated by the IMRF, allowing participants to delve deeper into the practical challenges of EDI implementation. One workshop focused on current practices in SAR organisations, while the second, led by David Mosimabale, concentrated on dismantling barriers to inclusion. Participants also had the opportunity to discuss short-, medium-, and long-term strategies for embedding EDI principles into everyday SAR operations.

Randy Strandt, President (National) Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, shared valuable insights into how EDI principles are integrated into Canada’s SAR approach, particularly regarding indigenous communities.

The seminar concluded with a look ahead at the IMRF’s EDI activities for 2025 and beyond. Jaakko Heikkilä outlined plans for #WomenInSAR training programmes, mentoring schemes, and the development of practical tools and benchmarks to further embed EDI principles into SAR organisations.

Cia Sjöstedt closed the seminar by reflecting on the key takeaways and reaffirming the IMRF’s commitment to advancing EDI across the global SAR community. The seminar underscored the importance of ensuring SAR organisations are representative of the communities they serve, while fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all SAR personnel.

The 2024 EDI Seminar was successful in highlighting and promoting the dedication and collaboration of participants, speakers, and the global SAR community in making maritime SAR operations a more inclusive and equitable space for everyone. The IMRF is committed to continuing this important work and looks forward to furthering EDI initiatives in the years to come, creating a more inclusive and diverse maritime SAR community.

All presentations from the meeting can be accessed through the Members’ Area of the IMRF website.