– Delphine Estibeiro –
The Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) India has marked a new chapter in its journey with the election of Ms Jimi John as its President. A seasoned Advocate and Accredited Arbitrator, Chambers of Jimi John, Advocates, Jimi brings over 22 years of expertise in maritime and commercial law. Her appointment signals a renewed commitment to fostering professional excellence and inclusivity within the maritime sector.
Jimi’s focus will be on building a vibrant platform where knowledge-sharing and professional growth converge, ensuring that WISTA India continues to be a driving force for women in the maritime and allied industries. “I am grateful for the trust and confidence bestowed upon me,” Jimi shared.
Joining Jimi in steering WISTA India forward is a dynamic board of professionals, each bringing distinct expertise and vision. The board includes:
- Ms Sandhya Pillai, Vice President – Advocate and Managing Partner at VMT Legal LLP, known for her specialization in ship arrests, charterparty disputes, and crew claims. She serves on multiple DG Shipping committees, championing regulatory reform and gender equity.
- Ms Kajal Festen-Purohit, General Secretary – Partner at IndiMaritime Solutions LLP and Account Manager (South Asia) at Marine Masters. With over two decades in marine services and market strategy, she excels in navigating complex global environments.
- Ms Arathi Narayanan, Treasurer – Director at ABS Marine Services Ltd, a law graduate with a master’s in Maritime Law from the University of Southampton. She oversees legal and administrative affairs while driving tech-enabled transformation.
- Ms Sanjam Sahi Gupta, Board Member – Director at Sitara Shipping Pvt Ltd and founder of WISTA India. A globally recognized advocate for diversity in shipping, she continues to lead initiatives that empower women across the industry.
- Ms Manisha Thaker, Board Member – Vice President at Trialliance Global Solutions, EXIM faculty, and logistics expert. With over 25 years of experience, she mentors MSMEs and emerging professionals while promoting gender inclusion on global platforms.
Together, this board represents a powerful blend of legal acumen, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment to advancing women’s leadership in maritime and trade.
Marex extends its best wishes to the newly elected board for a successful and impactful two-year tenure.
Marex Media