WiSA 2024 awards winners announced
Women in Scottish Aquaculture (WiSA) marked International Women’s Day, and the fifth anniversary of the network’s launch, by announcing the winners of the annual WiSA awards.
The awards, across five categories, were based on nominations from the network’s almost 400 members, and judged by an independent panel.
WiSA’s Rising Star of 2024 was awarded to Alison Brough (pictured above, left) fish veterinarian at Scottish Sea Farms, for her contribution to sector-wide advancements in fish health and welfare over the past year. She is the current Secretary of the Fish Veterinary Society as well as being involved in other groups such as the Young Aquaculture Society.
Kimberley McKinnell, Head of Health at Bakkafrost Scotland, was named Role Model of the Year and Clémence Fraslin (above, right) of the Roslin Institute was named Academic Champion for her work as leader of the aquaculture genetics group.
Daniel Carcajona, Business Development Manager at SAMS Enterprise, was recognised as WISA’s Ally of the Year for his continued support for women in aquaculture.
Also recognised for their outstanding contribution to diversity and inclusion in the sector were Sarah Riddle, Managing Director of Northern Light Consulting; Anne Anderson, head of sustainability and development at Scottish Sea Farms and Heather Jones, CEO of SAIC.
WiSA awards 2024 (from left) Anne Anderson, Daniel Carcajona and Heather Jones
The WiSA network – which was founded by the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) on International Women’s Day 2019 – represents all areas of the sector from producers and the supply chain to academia.
Teresa Garzon, chair of WiSA, said: “The annual WiSA awards provide us with a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in the sector who are helping to promote diversity and deliver impact in their respective fields. While great progress is being made in terms of inclusion, International Women’s Day is a reminder of the need for balance and support for women and girls in every workplace. Over the past five years, we have seen WiSA making a real impact, bringing together women in the sector for professional collaboration, networking, and career growth.”
Kimberley McKinnell, Head of Health, Bakkafrost Scotland
