As part of its activities for World Maritime Day 2026, WISTA Cyprus brought its members and their families together for “Here Only Monachus”, a children’s workshop dedicated to the Mediterranean monk seal, the sea and the marine environment.

Held on 19 September at the Limassol Municipal Gallery, the workshop offered children an interactive and experiential way to discover the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) through music, sound and creative activities.

Led by Rebecca Katsaris, Associate Educator at Enalia Physis, and music educator Dr Christina Charalambidou, the session invited the children to explore sounds associated with the sea, experiment with instruments and work together to create their own musical piece.

For WISTA Cyprus President Anna Pittalis, the event was also about bringing members together in a different setting.

“Our members came together not only as colleagues and professionals, but also as mums and dads, bringing their children with them. Our connection with the sea starts long before a career in maritime. It starts with curiosity, with discovering what is beneath the surface, and with learning to appreciate the world around us.”

The workshop formed part of WISTA Cyprus’ activities marking World Maritime Day, celebrated in 2026 under the theme “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence.”

For WISTA Cyprus, creating opportunities for younger generations to engage with the marine environment is also part of building a stronger connection with the maritime world.

About WISTA Cyprus

WISTA Cyprus is the Cyprus chapter of the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA International), a global network connecting women in the maritime, trading and logistics sectors. WISTA Cyprus provides a platform for networking, professional development, knowledge-sharing and collaboration, while promoting greater visibility and opportunities for women across the maritime industry.