We’re pleased to announce that in 2025 IMCA launched its annual charity donations programme, a move brought about by the brainstorming workshops built into the Association’s team days. IMCA Team Days are designed to create a platform for the secretariat to not only remain informed of updates on a corporate level but also to give everyone at the company the chance to voice their concerns, and suggest changes to overall operations.
The 2025 fund was set at £20,000 and after discussion across the team of colleagues it was agreed that it be divided between a number of charities selected by IMCA’s Secretariat after colleagues were invited to think beyond their day-to-day roles and talk openly about how IMCA might give back in a more meaningful way. What emerged was a shared desire to support charities that make a tangible difference.
For some, that connection came from a deep understanding of the challenges faced by seafarers and their families. Charities including ISWAN and the Maritime Charities Group exist to support people who often live and work far from home, sometimes in isolation, and frequently under immense pressure.
Other charities reflect the importance of supporting young people as they navigate some of life’s hardest experiences. Slideaway, which supports children and young people who are grieving the loss of a loved one or living with the uncertainty of a life-limiting illness in their family, offers a space where emotions are understood rather than rushed away.
That same belief in nurturing potential is reflected in support for organisations like the 35th Derby (Markeaton) Scout Group, which has been helping young people build confidence, resilience and life skills for more than a century. From outdoor adventures to teamwork and leadership, the group provides a sense of belonging and opportunity that can shape lives well into adulthood.
Several of the chosen charities focus on moments of crisis, when rapid, skilled intervention can save lives. MapAction, the humanitarian mapping charity, plays a crucial behind-the-scenes role during natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies. By turning complex data into clear, actionable maps, its volunteers help aid agencies reach people faster, direct resources where they are needed most, and make informed decisions when time is critical.
IMCA colleagues were keen to support charities offering both practical help and emotional understanding. Making Moments Count provides support to people living with secondary breast cancer and to those close to them, recognising that every stage of the journey brings its own challenges.
Environmental protection also featured strongly in colleagues’ choices. Organisations such as the Marine Conservation Society and The Ocean Cleanup are driven by a shared determination to protect the oceans for future generations. These causes hold meaning to both IMCA staff, but also our Members and society in general.
The remaining charities reflect a commitment to equality, education and opportunity within the maritime and STEM sectors and given the opportunity of the 2025 IMCA Global Summit in Malaysia, IMCA contributed to WISTA’s Sponsor-a-Cadet programme and the 1821 STEM Trust’s Women in Maritime initiative, which address long-standing gender imbalances, opening doors for young women through funding, mentorship and inspiration. The Summit was the perfect platform to launch our Next Generation network and raise awareness about WISTA’s work. Cadets were also invited to speak at the Next Generation session, which one of the most successful of the two-day event.
