Neurodiversity in the Marine Industry: A Personal Reflection. Championing the Cause By Sarah Wallbank – Chair of British Marine South West and Committee Member at ICOMIA.

A Personal Focus Amid Official Business

When I stepped into the role of Chair for British Marine South West at the AGM in May 2024, my priority was on a smooth and structured transition focussed on the continuation of the great work that had been done by the association within the region to date.

But at the start of my two year term, it seemed like it might be pertinent for one of the agenda items to give an indication of my character and values as the incoming Chair and to share a subject that genuinely matters to me and I chose neurodiversity.

Recognising the Value of Different Minds

For me, neurodiversity represents more than awareness; it’s about recognising the extraordinary value that neurodivergent individuals bring to every corner of the marine sector. Our industry thrives on innovation, technical problem-solving and creative thinking qualities that are often strongest in people who experience and process the world differently.

To explore this in a meaningful way, I invited British Marine South West member Matt Nebel from Broadreach Recruitment to deliver a talk during the AGM. Matt has extensive knowledge and lived experience of working with neurodiversity and his presentation was both insightful and deeply human. He spoke about the tangible benefits of employing neurodiverse people from exceptional focus and analytical ability to innovative thinking and outlined simple, practical adjustments that can make workplaces more inclusive and comfortable for everyone.

“It was the first time British Marine South West had ever placed neurodiversity on the agenda — and the response was remarkable.”

Lasting Impact

The discussion that followed was open, thoughtful and full of genuine curiosity. What struck me most was how ready people were to engage and to share their own experiences and the impact extended far beyond the meeting itself.

One delegate later told me that Matt’s talk and subsequent discussion had encouraged them to seek – and subsequently receive – an autism diagnosis, providing long-awaited clarity and self-understanding. Another attendee was inspired to host an independent cinema screening of the film Temple Grandin for their colleagues.

For those unfamiliar with it Temple Grandin tells the true story of an autistic scientist whose unique way of seeing the world revolutionised animal-handling systems across the livestock industry. The film beautifully illustrates how neurodivergent perspectives, when understood and valued, can lead to groundbreaking innovation and lasting positive change.

Inclusion as a Foundation of Sustainability

These outcomes reminded me that neurodiversity isn’t simply a topic for awareness days, it’s a vital part of how we build resilient, sustainable organisations. As an industry, we often discuss sustainability through an environmental lens – MARPOL compliance, carbon reduction, circular materials – but in my opinion, another critically important dimension is social sustainability.

Creating environments where every individual, regardless of how they think or communicate, can thrive and contribute fully is essential to a truly sustainable future. Diversity of thought drives creativity and creativity drives progress, values that sit at the very heart of what makes our sector strong.

Looking Ahead

I would like to thank ICOMIA Diversity Committee Chair Melanie Symes for asking me to compose this article, and I look forward to contributing to the stellar work done within the association, committed to building a more inclusive, forward-facing global industry.

About the Author

Sarah Wallbank is Chair of British Marine South West and sits on multiple ICOMIA committees, including the Diversity Committee. She is also Co-Founder and CEO of August Race Group, a UK-based manufacturer of premium marine care and protection products.

Sarah is a passionate advocate for sustainability, inclusivity and responsible growth within the global leisure marine sector, and has recently launched the Oceans Assured™ initiative to further advance environmental responsibility in the industry.