WOMEN OCEAN CHAMPIONS
Stories of Women Shaping the EU Blue Economy
Every journey into the Blue Economy is different. Every story matters.
Across Europe, women are shaping the Blue Economy in countless ways.
They lead research expeditions, build innovative companies, restore marine ecosystems, develop new technologies, and
strengthen coastal communities.
Women Ocean Champions brings these stories together in one place.
This book features 100 portraits and first-person stories from women working across Europe’s Blue Economy, representing different sectors, career stages and sea basins. Each story shows a unique path into ocean work, and a different way of creating impact.
Some journeys began in research laboratories. Others started on fishing boats, in coastal towns, or through entrepreneurship and innovation.
Through portraits, short profiles and interviews, we share the real paths women have taken, the challenges they’ve faced, and the moments that changed everything. There’s no single route into the Blue Economy, and no single definition of leadership. What unites these stories is courage, curiosity and a deep connection to the ocean.
Discover the full collection of stories and meet the women shaping Europe’s ocean future.
Why these stories matter
The Blue Economy influences how we produce food, move goods, develop energy, protect ecosystems, and support coastal livelihoods across Europe.
Yet women’s contributions to these sectors often remain less visible, particularly when it comes to leadership roles, innovation and decision-making.
This book was created to change that.
By sharing real experiences in women’s own words, Women Ocean Champions highlights the diversity of talent already shaping the Blue Economy and provides visible role models for the next generation.
These stories show that ocean careers can take many forms, and that women belong in every part of the sector, from science and policy to entrepreneurship, conservation and maritime industries.
Faces and stories from Europe’s sea basins
Yet women’s contributions to these sectors often remain less visible, particularly when it comes to leadership roles, innovation and decision-making.
This book was created to change that.
By sharing real experiences in women’s own words, Women Ocean Champions highlights the diversity of talent already shaping the Blue Economy and provides visible role models for the next generation.
These stories show that ocean careers can take many forms, and that women belong in every part of the sector, from science and policy to entrepreneurship, conservation and maritime industries.
Stories that go beyond the page
The voices of women connected to the ocean are not only captured in the book. They also come to life on screen.
As part of the WIN-BIG Atlantic Event in Málaga, we will premiere the EU episode of the documentary Women from the Sea, created by director Raquel Clemente Martins.
The documentary is part of a wider international storytelling project that follows women whose lives are closely tied to the ocean. Through personal stories and powerful visuals, it explores the emotional, cultural and professional relationships women have with the sea.
From scientists and entrepreneurs to educators, artists and community leaders, the film highlights the many ways women contribute to ocean knowledge, conservation and sustainable blue economies.
The documentary shares the same spirit as Women Ocean Champions. It shows that there is no single way to build a life connected to the ocean, and that every story has the power to inspire others.
A community of ocean changemakers
Women Ocean Champions is part of the broader WIN-BIG mission to support and empower women in the Blue Economy across Europe.
Through mentoring, training, networking events and storytelling initiatives, the project works to create stronger connections between women across sectors and regions.
By sharing these voices and experiences, the book aims to inspire future ocean leaders and strengthen a more inclusive Blue Economy.
Discover the full collection of stories and meet the women shaping Europe’s ocean future.