The UK’s Association of Sail Training Organisations (ASTO) has appointed the Hon Nusrat Ghani MP as its new vice president.
Ms Ghani is currently the Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, Chair of Ways and Means, and MP for Sussex and Weald, where she was first elected in 2015 and the first female MP to hold the seat.
As Shipping and Maritime Minister, she set in place long-term policies for the maritime sector introducing the UK’s Maritime2050 strategy.
ASTO exists to enable its members to transform lives through residential adventure at sea. In 2024, more than 11,000 young people and individuals with disabilities and additional needs sailed with its 31 member charities.
“We are delighted to welcome Ms Ghani to the team and are excited for what lies ahead for ASTO with all the expertise and experience she brings,” said Mark Todd, ASTO’s chair of trustees.
It was important to us to have someone with a huge passion for the maritime world.
Mark Todd
“It was important to us to have someone with a huge passion for the maritime world and positive change, which we’re confident Nusrat will support us with.”
Ms Ghani previously served as Minister of State for Europe at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office including being responsible for UK-EU relationship, national security and critical minerals.
“As a constituency MP, I’ve worked closely with people living with both visible and invisible disabilities,” she said.
“I’ve seen first-hand the profound impact these challenges can have on physical and mental wellbeing. I’m fully committed to supporting ASTO and championing the vital work its members do with young people and those with disabilities.
“I have a huge amount of enthusiasm for the maritime and sailing sector, and I’m passionate about being a strong advocate for both young people and the organisation in my role as vice president.”
