On 19 December 2025, the INNO2MARE project proudly presented the Young Innovation Leader Recognition Awardto two exceptional women professionals whose work exemplifies leadership, innovation, and impact within the maritime and marine sectors. The award celebrates emerging leaders who actively contribute to sustainable development, technological advancement, and collaboration across the blue economy.
Ana Čalić – Innovation, Sustainability, and Leadership in the Boating Industry
The Young Innovation Leader Award was presented to Ana Čalić, MSc Science, Business & Innovation, affiliated with Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and serving as Chief Commercial Officer at Navela. Ana was recognised for her outstanding contribution to the boating industry, her strong advocacy for sustainability, and her role as a business leader operating at the intersection of technology, innovation, and the marine environment.
In her professional role, Ana leads commercial strategy and delivers end-to-end solutions for boatbuilders, dealers, charter companies, and private clients. Through her work, she helps elevate the boating experience by integrating seamless services, advanced propulsion systems, and customer-centric innovation.
Beyond her corporate leadership, Ana is the Founder of Women in Nautica, an international initiative dedicated to empowering women in the boating industry. The initiative fosters inclusion and professional growth through conferences, mentorship programmes, media engagement, ambassadorships, retreats, and a dedicated podcast. Through these activities, Ana actively champions sustainability, diversity, and community-building, driving meaningful and lasting change across the global marine industry.
Héléne Smidt – Driving Collaboration and Responsible Maritime Innovation
The Young Innovation Leader Recognition was also awarded to Héléne Smidt, MSc Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, from the University of Antwerp, in recognition of her significant contributions to maritime innovation and ecosystem development.
Héléne is an active member of the Antwerp and Flemish MASS (Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships) ecosystem, where she plays a key coordinating role in the quarterly MASS Think Tank sessions organised in collaboration with the Royal Shipowners’ Association of Antwerp. These sessions bring together stakeholders from digitalisation, shipbuilding, academia, public authorities, and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), fostering dialogue, collaboration, and innovation across disciplines.
In addition, Héléne is involved with the non-profit organisation Whale Guardians, supporting the responsible use of technology to protect marine wildlife. Her work promotes the development of automated shipping solutions that balance operational efficiency, safety, and environmental conservation.
Celebrating Leadership and Impact
By awarding the INNO2MARE Young Innovation Leader Recognition, the project reaffirms its commitment to promoting talent, gender equality, sustainability, and innovation within the maritime sector. The achievements of Ana Čalić and Héléne Smidt serve as an inspiration to the wider community and highlight the vital role of visionary leaders in shaping the future of the blue economy.
You can find NNO2MARE Young Female Innovation Leader Award video