Pratik Bijlani –
The 5th Edition of the Women in Maritime Celebration & Awards (WIMCA 2026), organised by Marex Media, brought together maritime leaders, professionals, changemakers, cadets, and industry stakeholders on 16th May at Bharat Ratnam CFC under the powerful theme Empowering Women in Maritime: From Vision to Action. More than just an awards platform, WIMCA 2026 evolved into a meaningful industry dialogue on inclusion, leadership, resilience, welfare, and the future of women in shipping, logistics, ports, maritime law, and allied sectors.
The event opened with a warm welcome address by Capt Kamal Chadha, Managing Director of Marex Media, who highlighted the growing contribution of women across maritime while acknowledging the historical foundations built by generations of men in shipping. He emphasized that WIMCA represents far more than celebration alone — it stands for resilience, innovation, collaboration, and the creation of stronger professional networks that can help shape a more progressive maritime industry.
The opening sessions immediately set the tone for the day. Addressing the gathering as Guest of Honour, Christine Nathan, Specialist on Workers’ Activities, ILO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific spoke candidly about the realities women continue to face in maritime, including discrimination, stereotypes, unequal opportunities, and workplace harassment. Stressing the importance of mental health, counselling, equal opportunity, and safer workplaces, she remarked, “Women in maritime are no longer confined by traditional barriers; they are steadily shaping the industry through resilience, competence, and leadership. However, true inclusion requires continuous efforts towards gender equality, safer workplaces, mental well-being, and equal opportunities so women can contribute fully and confidently across every level of the maritime sector.”
Special Guest, Wing Commander Alka Nupur (Retd.) delivered one of the most inspiring addresses of the event, sharing her journey of entering the Indian Air Force despite societal expectations and the absence of female role models. Drawing parallels between aviation and maritime professions, she encouraged women to pursue leadership fearlessly, saying, “Do not shrink yourself because there is no space for you at the table. Walk into those rooms with courage and confidence, because every space where women are underrepresented is not a stop sign — it is an invitation to create a path, build a legacy, and inspire generations to come.”
The event also witnessed the launch of Centenarian Giants India, a prestigious coffee table initiative by Marex Media that honours institutions and organisations that have made century-long contributions to India’s maritime and logistics sectors. The initiative reflected the event’s larger focus on preserving maritime legacy while encouraging future-ready transformation.
Addressing the gathering as Chairperson of the WIMCA 2026 Board of Advisors, Renuka Nayar emphasized inclusion, mentorship, and leadership development for young maritime professionals and cadets. She stressed the collective responsibility of the industry to create opportunities and visibility for future women leaders while appreciating the efforts of the organising committee and advisory board.
Chief Guest, Capt Nitin Mukesh, Deputy Nautical Advisor cum Senior Deputy Director General of Shipping (Technical), Directorate General of Shipping highlighted the growing participation of women in maritime professions and noted the increase in women seafarers in India from 0.78% in 2021 to over 2.17% in 2025. He reiterated the Directorate General of Shipping’s focus on welfare, safety, and equal opportunity through initiatives such as Sagar Mein Samman. Capt Mukesh stated, “Empowering women in maritime is not merely a social responsibility; it is a strategic necessity for building a stronger, smarter, and more sustainable maritime sector. Inclusion must go beyond discussions and translate into real opportunities, safer workplaces, leadership pathways, and institutional support that allow women to thrive confidently across the industry.”
One of the day’s most engaging sessions was Panel Discussion 1 titled Tides of Tension – Impact of Global Geopolitics and War on Women in Maritime – At Sea and Ashore, moderated by Ms Aishwarya Pilankar Gupta. She highlighted how geopolitical conflicts deeply impact seafarers, families, and shipping operations while calling for solution-oriented and human-centric conversations. Ms Arathi Narayanan, Chairperson, The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, Madras discussed the operational and emotional challenges faced during geopolitical crises and stressed the need for inclusive welfare policies. Mr Manoj Yadav, General Secretary – Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) highlighted the emotional trauma, wage concerns, and welfare gaps affecting seafarers during crises. Ms Puja Rawat, Maritime Consultant & Development Specialist emphasized emotional preparedness and resilient leadership as critical components of maritime safety culture. Mr Haseeb Khan, Senior Marine People Advisor – MAERSK stressed empathetic communication and crisis-management support for seafarers’ families, while Ms Arpeeta Panvalkar, Senior Associate – Renata Partners highlighted legal complexities surrounding war-risk insurance, crew welfare, and workplace inclusion.
The Inspirational Women of Maritime Families segment added a deeply personal dimension to the event. Ms Firdaus Aftabi, Founder of Zareba and COO of Zenia Hospitality Services shared her inspiring journey from homemaker and sailor’s wife to hospitality entrepreneur, emphasizing identity, resilience, and financial independence. Ms Swetam Kumari, Founder of Indiana HR & Training Solutions reflected on balancing motherhood, family life, and career aspirations before successfully rebuilding her professional journey through patience, confidence, and perseverance.
The second panel discussion, Candid Conversations – Open House on Everything that Impacts Women in Shipping, was moderated by Capt MP Bhasin, Managing Director of MSC India who emphasized that women in maritime extend far beyond onboard roles. Ms Yukti Mittal, Entrepreneur, Educator, & Journalist spoke about the need for stronger support systems and gender-neutral career choices. Ms Janhavi Kandalgaokar, Director – City Transport Syndicate Pvt Ltd reflected on the remarkable growth of women’s participation in logistics and freight forwarding. Ms Madhuri Varade, FA & CAO – Mumbai Port Authority highlighted improvements in inclusivity, digitisation, and safety while stressing the need for more women in operational leadership. Mr Anand Tripathi, Resident Director – AMET University addressed structural inclusion challenges and concerns around workplace harassment and cyberbullying. Ms Priyanka Gupta, Director Marine HR – Anglo Eastern Ship Management emphasized the importance of moving beyond tokenism through mentorship, leadership pathways, vessel preparedness, and structured career development for women professionals.
The event concluded with a vibrant Walk of Success segment hosted by Dr Deepti Mankad, Founder of Mindspeak, Professional Development Trainer, Wellness Coach & Counselor, where distinguished women professionals from across the maritime industry were formally showcased and celebrated for their leadership, achievements, and contribution to the sector. Adding warmth and energy to the evening, her daughter Amyrah delighted attendees with an engaging dance performance, playful whimsy, and interactive quiz sessions with prizes that brought smiles and enthusiastic participation from the audience.
The evening further featured networking, entertainment, and the prestigious The Marex Maritime Women-Empowerment Awards (MMWA) 2026, honouring individuals and organisations that demonstrated exceptional leadership, resilience, innovation, and commitment towards gender inclusion within the maritime industry.
By the end of the celebration, WIMCA 2026 had clearly established itself as far more than an industry event. It became a platform where honest conversations, shared experiences, institutional support, and visible role models came together to reinforce one powerful message — the future of maritime will be stronger, smarter, and more inclusive when women are empowered not only to participate, but to lead.
The Marex Maritime Women-Empowerment Awards (MMWA) 2026
Individual Category
Rising Star – Ms Aishwarya Pillai, Ace Insurance
Ms Pillai, part of the placing team at Ace Insurance Brokers Pvt Ltd, has quickly distinguished herself in the marine insurance domain. With hands‑on expertise in policy placements, close coordination with underwriters, and ensuring seamless execution of insurance processes, she represents the new generation of professionals driving efficiency and reliability in maritime risk management.
Promising Talent – Ms Ankita Sen, Renata Partners
Ms Sen, Principal Associate at Renata Partners, is recognized as a rising force in maritime law, arbitration, and commercial litigation. A Gold Medallist from National Law University Odisha and founding member of its Centre for Maritime Law, she has represented clients before multiple Indian High Courts and arbitral tribunals. With expertise spanning admiralty disputes, international commercial arbitration, and shipping‑related matters, Ms Sen is distinguished by her sharp legal acumen and focused approach to complex maritime and commercial cases.
Young Achiever – Ms Sanjana Muttah, Rex Legalis
Ms Muttah, Senior Associate at Rex Legalis, is recognized for her dynamic contributions across civil, criminal, and commercial litigation, with a strong focus on maritime law, customs, and logistics claims. She has represented complex, high‑stakes matters before Indian High Courts, NCLT, SEBI, CESTAT, as well as international courts and arbitration tribunals. From assisting counsel in ICC arbitrations in Paris and India to handling intricate maritime claims and regulatory disputes, Ms Muttah is distinguished by her meticulous research, precise drafting, and unwavering professionalism. Her commitment to delivering effective, trustworthy results underscores her growing stature as a young achiever in the maritime legal arena.
Excellence in Maritime Education & Training – Dr Sharwari Jadhav, Samarth Marine Clinic
Dr Jadhav, Medical Director of Samarth Marine Clinic for the past nine years, is celebrated for her pioneering contributions to maritime healthcare and seafarer welfare. A respected member of the Technical Medical Drafting Committee, DG Shipping, India, she also serves as Counsellor at the Seafarers Club, JNPA, and Trustee of the Seafarer Welfare Association. Beyond her clinical leadership, Dr Jadhav is a dedicated Medical Faculty member at BP Marine Academy, Navi Mumbai, where she mentors future maritime professionals. Her exemplary service and compassionate guidance continue to shape the landscape of maritime medicine and education.
Exceptional Professional Achievement in Maritime – Ms Shaviya Sharma, Dockendale
Ms Sharma, Head of Procurement at Dockendale Ship Management Group, is recognized for her outstanding leadership and transformative impact in maritime procurement. With over 17 years of experience across shipping, logistics, and construction, she has managed more than $360M in spend across 1,000+ vessels and delivered cost savings of up to 27% across mandates. Based in Dubai and leading a cross‑border team across four countries, Ms. Sharma has built procurement functions from the ground up, repositioned them as strategic value creators, and championed responsible supply chain practices under the UN Global Compact. Her achievements in automation, supply chain resilience during COVID, and mentoring diverse teams underscore her stature as a trailblazer in a traditionally male‑dominated sector.
Excellence in People Management – Ms Juvita Thapa, Anglo‑Eastern
Ms Thapa’s remarkable journey in shipping began in 1992 as a Trainee Personnel Officer with Univan Ship Management, at a time when the industry was largely male‑dominated. Through perseverance and dedication, she rose steadily into leadership roles, continuing her career after the 2016 merger with Anglo‑Eastern Ship Management. Today, as Senior Manager, she oversees vessels and critical crew changes in collaboration with Ardmore Shipping, Ireland. Her three‑decade career stands as a testament to resilience, leadership, and an enduring commitment to people management in maritime.
Catalyst of Change – Ms. Aditi Maheshwari, Renata Partners
Ms Maheshwari, Associate Partner at Renata Partners, is recognized for her rising influence in maritime and commercial law. With extensive experience across both dry and wet shipping matters, she advises shipowners, cargo interests, charterers, and global maritime stakeholders on complex transactional, advisory, and litigation issues spanning India, the UK, Singapore, the UAE, and Greece. Her expertise covers vessel sale and purchase transactions, admiralty disputes, and international commercial arbitration under LMAA, SCMA, and ICC frameworks. Known for her strategic legal insight and cross‑jurisdictional practice, Ms. Maheshwari is regarded as a dynamic professional shaping the future of maritime law.
Excellence in Operational Impact – Ms Rinku Vats, NYK Ship Management
Ms Vats, Head of Maritime Insurance and Claims Management at NYK Ship Management, is recognized for her exceptional expertise and leadership in navigating complex global maritime challenges. With over 23 years of experience across shipping, logistics, and insurance, she has successfully led legal and claims functions for large fleets, managing high‑value litigation, casualty response, and regulatory compliance. Her proven ability to foster strong stakeholder relationships and collaborate with P&I Clubs, insurers, and international bodies has been instrumental in mitigating risks and driving operational excellence. Known for her professionalism and integrity, Ms Vats continues to make a significant impact in strengthening maritime resilience and advancing initiatives in seafarer welfare and maritime medicine.
Trailblazer in Maritime Healthcare – Dr Seema Gurnani, Director, IHPL Global
Dr Gurnani, MD in Pathology from the prestigious KEM College, is honored for her pioneering contributions to maritime healthcare. Entering the shipping sector in 1999, she broke new ground by founding India’s first global drug and alcohol testing company in 2000, delivering onboard testing across vessels worldwide to safeguard crew mental health and generate significant cost savings for Indian shipping companies. Today, IHPL Global LLP conducts testing for over 2,000 vessels annually at major international ports. Known for her precision, ethical practice, and scientific approach, Dr Gurnani has earned the trust of shipping companies while championing seafarer welfare. Her dedication and leadership make her a true trailblazer in maritime healthcare, recognized at the Women in Maritime function.
Mentor of Excellence – Ms Smitha Peter, Seven Islands Shipping Ltd
Ms Peter, Senior General Manager – Administration at Seven Islands Shipping Ltd., has been an integral part of the company since its inception in 2002. Over her 24‑year journey, she has contributed across diverse functions including ISM, Manning, Marine Audits, Chartering, Administration, and Human Resources, while leading the Manning, HR, and Administration teams. Widely regarded as the company’s knowledge anchor, she is the trusted mentor for younger colleagues, guiding them through processes, marine regulations, DG Shipping compliance, certification protocols, and organizational challenges. Her extensive experience, steady leadership, and commitment to nurturing talent exemplify her role as a true mentor of excellence in the maritime sector.
Excellence in Business Impact – Ms Tarangini Vakil, HIMT
Ms Vakil, Co‑Founder and CFO of HIMT Group, is celebrated for her pivotal role in building one of the world’s leading private maritime education and training institutions. As Director (Finance), she has overseen the group’s financial operations with vision and precision, while also shaping its strategic direction and expansion. Under her leadership, HIMT Offshore and HIMT Marine Academy have become globally recognized for UK MCA‑approved and value‑added courses, setting benchmarks in innovation and quality standards. Her dedication, foresight, and consistent efforts have been instrumental in positioning HIMT as a trusted name in maritime education worldwide.
Excellence in Marine Solutions – Ms Ritu Chaudhri, Director, Enmarol Petroleum India
Ms Chaudhri, MBA graduate from the University of Connecticut and former senior management consultant at Arthur Andersen, is recognized for her pioneering role in marine fuel treatment solutions. As Promoter Director of Enmarol Petroleum India, she has led the company since 2006 as the authorized distributor of Innospec Limited (UK), a NASDAQ‑listed global leader in fuel treatment chemicals. Over 17 years, she has worked closely with major shipowners and managers across India, delivering Octamar fuel treatment solutions and addressing critical bunker challenges amid evolving environmental regulations. Coming from a merchant mariner family, Ms Chaudhri is widely respected as a driven businesswoman whose leadership and commitment to excellence continue to strengthen India’s maritime solutions landscape.
Organization Category
Excellence in Advancing Women in Maritime Services – Navitera
Excellence in Promoting Women in Seafaring – Maersk
Excellence in Women Safety – Seaspan
Marex Media