Sally Helme, publisher of Cruising World and Sailing World magazines, has been awarded the 2015 Leadership in Women’s Sailing Award. The award was presented last weekend by the National Women’s Sailing Association (NWSA) and Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatUS) at the NWSA Annual Conference.
The award recognises an individual with a record of achievement in inspiring, educating and enriching the lives of women through sailing. “Sally is a widely recognised leader in the sailing industry and she has effectively supported women in all aspects of sailing throughout her life,” said NWSA president Linda Newland in the statement. “She has made a significant impact on the business of sailing and how the roles of women in sailing are viewed.”
Helme, who sailed competitively with her college team, has worked with multiple boards and committees that promote sailing throughout her career. She also worked with Offshore Sailing School CEO Doris Colgate to create NWSA’s “Take the Helm” series of women’s educational and networking events.
“I have always believed that women can have a significant impact on our industry, and it’s been my goal to spread that idea and encourage more efforts to meet the needs of this very important market,” said Helme. “I have also always valued what sailing can bring to our lives – providing a wonderful escape, instilling a sense of confidence and self-reliance, and simply offering cherished time on the water with friends and family.”
Helme was also the first female publisher within the sailing industry as well as past president of Sail America. She has served on the boards of Sail Newport and US Sailing, and is currently a vice president of Marine Marketers of America. Helme was also a founding member of International Women in Boating. In 2011 Helme was honoured with the Sail Magazine Industry Leadership Award, and in 2014, the Rhode Island Marine Trade Association Anchor Award.
