EAF-Nansen Programme Women’s Alumni Network

Background

The EAF-Nansen Programme works with partner countries in Africa and the Bay of Bengal to strengthen fisheries science, management, and sustainable ocean governance using the ecosystem approach to fisheries.

Gender equality is central to this mission. While women play vital roles across fisheries value chains, they remain underrepresented in scientific, technical, and decision-making roles. The Women’s Alumni Network was created to strengthen women’s leadership, visibility, and participation in fisheries science and management.

Purpose and goals

The Network empowers, connects, and advances women in fisheries by fostering mentorship, community, collaboration, and professional development at various levels. The goal is to create and sustain momentum within the network of Programme alumni, empowering them to play a more significant and influential role in the fisheries sector. To this end, various initiatives are planned such as:

• Mentorship and guidance – Support career growth through mentoring and technical advice.
• Peer learning and exchange – Share knowledge and experience across countries, disciplines, and career stages.
• Inclusive community – Provide a supportive space to discuss challenges and build solidarity.
• Visibility and advocacy – Highlight women’s achievements and amplify their voices.
• Networking and collaboration – Strengthen professional connections in fisheries.
• Leadership initiatives – Encouraging and empowering women to take on leadership roles and actively participate in decision-making processes.

Membership

The Network is open to:

• Women who have participated in EAF-Nansen activities (e.g. research cruises, trainings, workshops, exchanges)
• Women in partner institutions collaborating with the Programme
• Women alumni at all career stages
• Women mentors who wish to contribute their experience

Membership is voluntary, and active engagement is encouraged.

Allies and supporters
While membership is women-only, supportive colleagues of all genders can contribute by:

• Championing women’s leadership
• Sharing opportunities for training and collaboration
• Amplifying women’s achievements
• Supporting gender-responsive institutional practices

Partner institutions and networks
The Network may collaborate with institutions and technical networks committed to gender equality and sustainable fisheries.

Learning and development opportunities
Network members will have the opportunity to access external training, workshops, and collaborative opportunities in various fisheries-related fields, as well as participate in online learning platforms to strengthen their technical skills leadership capacity, and career growth.

For more information: [email protected]