Inaugural YoungShip Global Leadership Summit from 16-18 November

The inaugural YoungShip Global Leadership Summit (YGLS) 2024 will take place from 16-18 November, hosted in the vibrant cities of Colombo and Galle. 

As a novel event for the maritime industry and hosted for the very first time in Asia, this summit is set to bring together young professionals, industry leaders, and stakeholders from over 20 countries to enhance collaboration and address the challenges and opportunities in the maritime sector and foster a new generation of leaders ready to navigate the future. Delegates from Norway, Bangladesh, Denmark, Cote d’Ivoire, Oman, Egypt, Belgium, Nigeria, Italy, India, Cyprus, Finland, UK, Singapore, Greece, Panama, South Africa and the Netherlands are set to take the stage for insightful discussions at the prestigious conference, which will be held on 17 November at The Kingsbury, Colombo.

YGLS 2024 is envisioned to be a transformative platform, dedicated to equipping emerging leaders with the skills, insights, and network needed to drive progress in the maritime industry. As the first summit of its kind in South Asia, the summit holds immense significance, spotlighting Sri Lanka as a key maritime hub and empowering young maritime professionals to take on leading roles in the industry. Attendees will gain invaluable insights from distinguished speakers, discover trends shaping the maritime industry, and access professional development workshops focusing on sustainability, digital transformation, and strategic leadership. 

With panel discussions surrounding the topics of; global economic trends in shipping, innovation driven by the need for a progressive maritime industry, and human resources in a changing maritime landscape – skills needed by future generations, YGLS aims to equip young maritime professionals with the foresight and acumen necessary to tackle the evolving challenges of the global maritime landscape. Moreover, the panels have been designed to provide industry stakeholders and maritime professionals the rare opportunity to learn from thought leaders who have redefined success in the industry.

One of the cornerstone privileges of YGLS 2024 will be its extensive networking opportunities. Attendees will have the chance to connect with global leaders, experts, and peers present from across the globe, fostering international networks that extend beyond borders. This provides participants with unparalleled chances to collaborate, learn, and gain mentorship from professionals and peers of diverse backgrounds in attendance. Accordingly, the summit aims to be a launchpad for building a robust community of future leaders who will continue to support each other well beyond the event.

An additional highlight of YGLS 2024 will be the Leadership Training conducted by Vidusha Nathavitharana on 18 November in Galle, a city renowned for its maritime heritage. This segment of the summit will focus on cultivating the leadership skills of local and foreign participants; providing a unique forum for a cross-cultural exchange of ideas and experiences for the development of emerging global leaders. The event will incorporate an interactive workshop and breakout sessions designed to foster innovation that transcends the maritime industry.

The success of YGLS 2024 would not be possible without the generous support of its sponsors and endorsement by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau. Deepest appreciation is extended to the event’s Platinum sponsor – Meridian Maritime Services Ltd.; Gold sponsor – Hayleys Advantis; Silver sponsors – McLarens Group of Companies, Pacific International Lines Pte Ltd., Prime Lands Residences PLC; Support Associations – Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents (CASA), Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) and Sri Lanka Association of NVOCC Agents (SLANA); Training and Development Partner – Ceyline Group; and Education Partner – Colombo International Nautical and Engineering College (CINEC) Sri Lanka; Tour Partner – Helanka Vacations, and all other valuable sponsors, whose contributions have made this stellar event a reality. Their commitment to nurturing the next generation of maritime leaders is invaluable, and their support helps YGLS 2024 create a platform for learning, growth, and collaboration in South Asia’s maritime sector.

YGLS 2024 is open to participants from all industries and those who are passionate about the future of the maritime sector. Maritime leaders, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and all other stakeholders in shaping the maritime and logistics future are invited, to register and be part of this pioneering event. 

Registration is open for the YoungShip Global Leadership Summit 2024, taking place on November 17 and 18 in Colombo and Galle. The event aims to redefine maritime leadership, foster lasting connections, and promote a sustainable and innovative future.