NOWA General Assembly 2026: Building the Next Chapter Together

On 2 October 2026, the Network of Women in Aquaculture (NOWA) held its General Assembly, bringing together members from across Europe and beyond to reflect on the network’s progress, review its activities and finances, and shape its priorities for the year ahead.

The General Assembly reached the required quorum, with strong participation from voting members, and all resolutions were approved. Members approved the activities and President’s Report covering 2025–2026, as well as the financial report.

The Assembly highlighted an important period of growth for NOWA. Over the past two years, the network has strengthened its international visibility through participation in major events including the World Food Forum, Aquaculture Europe, European Ocean Days, One Ocean Science Congress, Aquafarm and Seafood Expo Global. A major milestone was NOWA’s global technical recognition from FAO for its contribution to more inclusive aquatic food systems.

The network also expanded its community activities through initiatives such as the SheSpeaksBlue expert directory, the Women’s Spotlight campaign, its first online workshop on returning to the workplace after maternity or career breaks, and the initial development of a structured mentoring programme. NOWA also strengthened its international partnerships through an ongoing FAO-partnered project mapping women-led organisations in aquaculture worldwide and through engagement with European and international project opportunities.

The financial report reflected the continued development of the association, with NOWA remaining a volunteer-led organisation and reinvesting its resources into its activities and community.

Looking ahead

Discussions during the Assembly also provided valuable input from members on what they would like to see from NOWA in the coming year. Networking, visibility, mentoring, knowledge exchange and professional development emerged as key priorities.

Based on this feedback, NOWA will focus on:

• strengthening active member engagement and volunteer participation

• launching a NOWA Mentoring Programme

• further developing and expanding SheSpeaksBlue

• developing a programme of technical and professional development webinars

• strengthening outreach and visibility through conferences, universities and local networks

• continuing to build European and international partnerships and seek funding opportunities
  

The Board will now work with members to turn these priorities into concrete activities over the coming months, including the development of the mentoring pilot, a new active-members communication group and new outreach tools.

The General Assembly was not only an opportunity to formally approve the work of the past year, but also a reminder that NOWA is built by and for its community. With the continued engagement, ideas and support of its members, NOWA looks forward to entering its next chapter with renewed energy and ambition.