Women in Marine reveals speaker line up for the Southampton International Boat Show networking event

Women in Marine Speaker Line-Up (clockwise from top left) Nicky Vaux, Captain Claire Thompson, Kate O'Sullivan, Claire Abraham, Sarah Donohue © Southampton International Boat Show

Women in Marine is delighted to reveal the theme and speaker line-up for this year's highly anticipated panel and networking event, taking place at the Southampton International Boat Show on Wednesday, 24 September 2025.

Proudly sponsored by DF Capital, LA Marine and Haven Knox-Johnston, the event continues to gain momentum each year - growing in popularity and cementing its reputation as one of the most inspiring and talked-about sessions at the show.

The theme for this year's event "Diverse Talent in Action: Leadership, Representation and Career Progression in the Marine Industry" - will see our panel take an in-depth look at how women in unique and specialist roles are shaping the industry, with a focus on leadership growth, sector representation, and confidence-building in business environments. An important part of the discussion will centre on Imposter Syndrome as the panel debate whether it's a real or learned experience, and share practical tips and personal advice on how to recognise it, reframe it, and move forward with self-assurance.

Taking place on a new day, at a new time, and in a new location, the event will be held in the relaxed and welcoming surroundings of the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant - bringing together marine professionals from across the sector to listen, learn, share and network.

The event will be hosted by Nicky Vaux, known to many as The Boat Princess — an industry champion, podcast host and co-owner of Australia's Empire Marinas Group. A dynamic voice for women in the marine industry, she is a passionate advocate, experienced marina operator, and international speaker, bringing energy, insight and relatability to every conversation.

Nicky will lead a powerful and honest discussion with a panel of accomplished women from across the industry, offering the audience tangible insights and practical takeaways they can put into action straight away.

The panel includes:

Captain Claire Thompson - Commanding Officer, Aircraft Carrier - HMS Queen Elizabeth

Captain Claire Thompson has forged an extraordinary and distinguished career in the Royal Navy, commanding multiple vessels and undertaking critical operational deployments around the world. Her leadership experience spans conflict zones, strategic missions, and key shore-based appointments.

Currently serving as Commanding Officer of HMS Queen Elizabeth — the UK's flagship aircraft carrier — Claire brings compelling insight into leading under pressure, driving operational excellence, and challenging the norms of traditionally male-dominated environments. Recognised with an OBE in 2022, her journey is one of determination, resilience, and inspiration.

Sarah Donohue - Marine Stuntwoman, Powerboat Champion, Conservationist, Speaker

With a career that fuses adrenaline and advocacy, Sarah is one of the marine world's most fascinating voices. A former European powerboat champion, she is also a commercial diver, marine conservationist, motivational speaker and stuntwoman. Her latest work includes doubling for Cameron Diaz in the Netflix's movie 'Back in Action' and serving as a stunt specialist for 007-themed productions.

Sarah also champions sustainability and youth education, advocating for ocean conservation through her diplomas in marine biology and environmental outreach. As one of the few women Commissioners in the UIM (Union Internationale Motonautique), she's a role model for breaking boundaries in marine motorsport and beyond.

Claire Abraham - HR Officer, Navico Group (Brunswick Corporation)

With more than 20 years in marine operations, Claire now channels her passion for people and processes into HR at Navico Group - part of the Brunswick Corporation. She is an award-winning advocate for workplace inclusion and co-leads Brunswick's Women on Water (WoW) Employee Resource Group, helping create a supportive and connected culture across the company.

In 2022, Claire was recognised with the WoW Inspiration Ambassador Award for her ongoing contributions to gender equity. A mother of two daughters, Claire brings both personal and professional perspective to the conversation on inclusive leadership and opportunity in the marine sector.

Kate O'Sullivan - Joint Managing Director and Owner, ADPR

Heading up the award-winning PR agency ADPR, Kate oversees a diverse client portfolio and a talented, close-knit team. With a career spanning global corporations, innovative start-ups and fast-growing SMEs, Kate is driven by a mission to help businesses thrive through the power of strategic storytelling and authentic engagement.

As a qualified Personal Performance Coach, she brings a unique blend of business acumen and mindset coaching to her work - supporting individuals to set bold goals and realise their full potential across career, wellbeing and life. Named in Southwest Business Insider's '42 Under 42' list of influential entrepreneurs, Kate brings expertise in strategic growth, people development, and storytelling that drives change.

Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine, owners and operators of the Southampton International Boat Show comments:

"Our 2025 panel brings together an exceptional range of voices who will not only share their personal journeys, but also offer practical insights — from tackling imposter syndrome to building lasting confidence — that attendees can take away and apply in their own careers.

"Whether you're new to the sector or already on your leadership journey, this is a great opportunity to be inspired, share experiences and grow. The conversations will be open, thought-provoking and empowering - and we hope everyone leaves with fresh ideas, renewed self-belief and valuable new connections. I encourage everyone, whatever their role or gender, to come along and be part of the conversation."

Event Details – NEW Day, NEW Time, NEW Location

• Date: Wednesday 24 September 2025
• Time: 16:30 – 18:30
• Location: Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant, Southampton International Boat Show

16:30 – Doors open
16:45 – Panel discussion begins, followed by Q&A
17.40 – Introduction to Room to Read
17:45 – Networking, drinks and nibbles
18:30 – Event closes

New for 2025: Support Girls’ Education Worldwide

This year, Women in Marine joins forces with our sister event, Women in the Marine Industry International, to support Room to Read, a global non-profit organisation dedicated to ending illiteracy and gender inequality.

Through its Girls’ Education Program, Room to Read equips young women with the mentorship, resources, and life skills needed to complete their education and create brighter futures. We’re inviting all attendees to consider making a donation in support of this vital work.

To find out more and make a donation visit www.roomtoread.org

Together, we can help girls across the world stay in school and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Don’t Miss Out – Secure your place

Open to all, the Women in Marine panel and networking event at the Southampton International Boat Show is free to attend, but spaces are limited.

Secure your place and register your interest today by emailing: womeninmarine@britishmarine.co.uk

Please note: A valid ticket to the Southampton International Boat Show is required to access the venue. Tickets can be purchased at www.southamptonboatshow.com Work in the marine industry? Then check out the new Trade Ticket – enjoy unlimited show access Monday to Thursday, early show entry, Trade Lounge access and more.

For updates and further details visit: www.southamptonboatshow.com/women-in-marine