About the award

RINA was founded in 1860, but it was not until 1919 that the first woman was admitted as a member, Eily Keary. This maritime diversity award commemorates this significant event in RINA’s history.

Since then, the Institution has been dedicated to enhancing diversity and inclusion, both within the organisation and by supporting and recognising industry-wide initiatives and efforts.

The annual Maritime Diversity Eily Keary Award celebrates those individuals, teams and organisations who champion equality, diversity and inclusion and have made a real and lasting impact in their local environment, and organisation of the maritime industry.

RINA is dedicated to ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender, faith, ethnicity, or background, has equal opportunities to engage fully in the Institution’s activities. RINA also strives to promote equality of opportunity and participation throughout the global maritime industry.

Sponsor

BP, a global leader in energy production and sustainability, proudly sponsors the Maritime Diversity Award. Through this partnership with RINA, BP underscores its commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within the maritime industry.

Diversity is about celebrating those differences and embracing those differences, rather than pushing it to one side or overlooking it.

Catherine Ingram, Head of Naval Architecture, Navantia UK

Watch the full interview here

Who is eligible?

Individuals

Individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in the maritime industry are encouraged to be nominated for the Maritime Diversity Award. This prestigious recognition by RINA and BP celebrates outstanding efforts in fostering an inclusive and diverse maritime sector.

companies

Companies that have implemented initiatives to enhance equality, diversity, and inclusion in the maritime industry are invited to be nominated for the Maritime Diversity Award. This esteemed accolade acknowledges corporate excellence in promoting a more inclusive and diverse maritime environment.

What you can win

Winning the RINA Award gives you recognition across the maritime sector and the chance to showcase your work to a global audience.

Award presented at the Annual Dinner
You'll receive your award at RINA’s Annual Dinner, attended by more than 300 maritime professionals, industry leaders, and academics.

Permission to use the winner’s logo
You can use the official Maritime Diversity Award winner’s logo in your reports, presentations, website, and promotional materials.

Promotion on RINA’s platforms
Winners are highlighted on the RINA website and social media channels, giving your work strong visibility across the international community.

Feature in RINA publications
Your project may be included in The Naval Architect or other RINA magazines, helping your innovation reach a wider technical audience.

Opportunities to share your work
Winners may be invited to speak at RINA conferences or webinars, offering valuable exposure and networking opportunities.

Professional recognition
The award is a respected mark of achievement and can help strengthen your professional profile within the maritime industry.

Nominations

Nominations may be made by any member of the global maritime community and will be judged by a panel of members of the Institution and BP.

Nominations should include a 750 word summary, describing the contribution made towards enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion in the maritime sector.

Nominations should be made by emailing Please make sure to leave the exact contact details.

Deadline for submissions to be considered for 2026 is the 31st December 2025.

Guidelines for nominations

past winners

2025

Mental Health Support Solutions

Their dedication to promoting the mental well-being of individuals in the maritime industry.

2024

David Foote (Babcock)

For advocating Neurodiversity in Maritime Defence and Shipbuilding.

2023

Susan Kingswood

For working across the business to create a full-scale transformation from a command and control culture to one of inclusive leadership, minority representation and a fully inclusive environment which is welcoming to all.

2022

Ralitsa K Mihaylova

A role model for any aspiring female naval architect, engineer, or scientist in a traditionally male dominated environment.

2021

Catherine Ingram

Spearhead for change in ED&I at BMT.

2020

Natalie Desty

Founder of STEM returners