Vancouver, BC – June 25, 2025 – On this International Day of the Seafarer, the International Sailors’ Society Canada (ISSC) proudly launches the Captain Oscar Pinto Seafarer Welfare Excellence Award, Canada’s first endowed award dedicated to recognizing outstanding contributions to seafarer welfare. Established with a personal endowment from Shri Madiwal, this prestigious award honors the legacy of Captain Oscar Pinto, a visionary maritime leader and mentor who championed the health, happiness, and well-being of seafarers across Canada.
Unlike existing volunteer awards, this endowed award ensures a lasting commitment to celebrating individuals, organizations, or programs that go above and beyond to support seafarers. The award recognizes excellence in four key areas:
- Comprehensive Welfare Policies: Implementing best practices, such as innovative ship designs, enhanced onboard facilities, healthy nutrition programs, safe repatriation, and seafarer family support.
- Significant Advocacy Efforts: Leading initiatives like seafarer vaccinations, fundraising, policy changes, or providing specialized health and legal services at minimal or no cost.
- Proactive Support for Seafarers: Offering forward-thinking programs, such as flexible shore leave, efficient terminal services (e.g., WiFi, free transportation), mental health support, and advanced shore welfare facilities.
- Leadership and Inspiration: Serving as a role model, mentoring seafarers, and inspiring industry-wide improvements in seafarer welfar
“Captain Oscar Pinto’s dedication to seafarers inspired me to establish this award,” said Shri Madiwal, primary donor and former mentee of Captain Pinto. “His mentorship shaped my career, and this endowed award ensures his legacy continues to drive meaningful change for seafarers across Canada.”
“This award is a landmark for Canada’s maritime community, celebrating those who elevate seafarer welfare while honoring Captain Pinto’s extraordinary legacy,” said Dena Rantz, Chair of the International Sailors’ Society Canada. “We are committed to recognizing and inspiring excellence, ensuring seafarers receive the support they deserve.”
The award will be presented annually at a major industry event, to celebrate, amplify its impact and inspire the maritime community. The first ceremony is scheduled for fall 2025 (date TBD), with the ISSC Board selecting recipients from nominations submitted by the maritime community.
For more details and to view the launch video, visit our Seafarer Welfare Excellence Award page.