Over 65 participants tuned in last week for an inspiring International Women’s Day webinar, hosted by sailing commentator and SheSails ambassador Nic Douglass, to celebrate the achievements of women in sailing and explore ways to accelerate  action in the sport, the theme of International Women’s Day this year. The event featured a powerhouse lineup of speakers who shared their personal journeys, challenges, and visions for the future of women in sailing. 

Breaking Barriers on the Water 

The evening kicked off with Annette Hesselmans and Sophie Snijder, the dynamic mother-daughter duo making history in offshore sailing. As the first-ever mother-daughter team to compete in the Melbourne to Osaka Cup, they shared insights into their race preparation, the challenges of double-handed sailing, and their success in the Sydney to Hobart, where they won their division. “There were tough moments, but we trust each other completely,” said Annette. “Sailing together is about playing to our strengths.” 

Sophie Baynton, the driving force behind Keppel Bay Sailing Club’s female participation programs, followed with an engaging discussion on growing women’s sailing. “Creating a welcoming space for women has been key,” she explained, crediting developing a pathway from the club’s all-female SheSails learn-to-sail courses to many then racing in Keppel Bays Sailing Club’s SheSails women regatta for an increase in participation at the club. 

Diversity, Inclusion, and the Future of Sailing 

Naby Mariyam, a leader in fintech and an advocate for diversity in sailing, brought a fresh perspective on inclusion. Drawing from her experience in finance and technology, she highlighted the need for systemic change in sailing. “Representation matters,” she emphasized. “Clubs must actively create spaces where women—especially women of color—feel welcomed and valued.” 

Naby also spoke about the importance of building a sense of community within sailing clubs, emphasising that clubs should be places where people feel like they truly belong. “It’s not just about access to sailing—it’s about making clubs feel like home, where people can connect, support each other, and feel included.” 

Doortje Hoerst, a PhD researcher studying women’s experiences in sailing, shared key findings from her research, including the challenges women face in traditionally male-dominated yacht clubs. “Women often feel like guests rather than equal members,” she noted, reinforcing the need for intentional cultural shifts. 

Leanne Grant closed the speaker sessions with her deeply personal journey into sailing and how it led her to found Sailing Lifts Your Spirits, a program using sailing to support mental health and well-being for First Responders. “Sailing is more than a sport—it’s healing,” she said, recounting the impact the program has had on healthcare workers and first responders. 

Driving Change Beyond International Women’s Day 

The event wrapped up with a Q&A session, where speakers discussed practical steps clubs can take to accelerate gender equity. The key takeaway? Accelerate Action. “It’s about doing, not just talking, creating a sense of community” said Naby. “If we want to see real change, we need to push forward with purpose.” 

With over 65 engaged participants and powerful discussions, this year’s International Women’s Day webinar proved that momentum for change is building. The message was clear women belong at the helm, and sailing is stronger when everyone is included. 

What’s Next? 

Inspired by the discussions, Australian Sailing’s SheSails program will continue its efforts to break down barriers, support women’s participation, and encourage more clubs to act. The tide is turning, and with the passion and leadership shown in this webinar by the incredible speakers, the future of women in sailing looks brighter than ever. 

Click here if you want to know more about the SheSails program and click here to watch the recording.