WIMA India
Women In Maritime Association (WIMA INDIA), the Indian Chapter of IMO’s Global WIMA Programme launched in India. - Mumbai, India - 29 October 2025
In a landmark moment for the Indian maritime sector, the Women In Maritime Association (WIMA INDIA) was formally launched today as the official national chapter under the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) globally recognised Women In Maritime (WIMA) Programme and the regional body WIMA Asia.
The launch took place during the prestigious India Maritime Week 2025 at the Maritime SheEO Conference, bringing together leaders, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and women professionals from across the global maritime spectrum. The event marked a historic step towards strengthening gender equality, capacity building, and leadership development for women in India’s maritime and blue economy sectors.
Founder President , WIMA INDIA, Ms. Saleha Shaikh gave the welcome address and representation of the IMO’s Women In Maritime Program globally.
Additionally, there were inspiring virtual addresses from:
🌏 Ms. Mariana Noceti, Head, IMO’s Women In Maritime Program
🌏 Ms. Merle Jimenez San Pedro, President – WIMA ASIA
A specially curated video – “The Journey Begins” showcased the incredible activities and achievements of WIMAs across the globe.
The launch was graced by Dr. Jose Matheickal , Technical Cooperation and Implementation Division (TCID), International Maritime Organization (IMO), who formally unveiled the WIMA INDIA logo, marking the beginning of a new chapter for women professionals across the Indian maritime landscape.
The event was further enriched by the presence and support of:
Ms. Sanjam Sahi Gupta, Founder – Maritime SheEO
Ms. Jimi John FCIArb, President – WISTA India
A National Platform to Advance Women in Maritime
WIMA INDIA has been established to champion the participation, representation, and professional growth of women working in — and aspiring to join — India’s maritime and allied industries. The Association will collaborate closely with:
- Directorate General of Shipping (Govt. of India)
- Shipping companies, ports & terminals, maritime training institutes
- Industry associations, unions, and academic partners
- Regional and international partners under IMO’s WIMA network
Through these partnerships, WIMA INDIA aims to create a robust ecosystem of support, advocacy, and development for women professionals across seafaring, port operations, logistics, shipping management, maritime law, engineering, offshore services, and emerging sectors such as blue tech and marine sustainability.
Vision & Mission
⚓ Official Vision Statement – WIMA INDIA
To strengthen the Indian maritime community by championing women’s participation, leadership, and voice at every level — fostering a balanced, resilient, and inclusive global maritime ecosystem.
⚓ Official Mission Statement – WIMA INDIA
To empower and elevate Indian women across all spheres of the maritime industry through leadership, collaboration, and professional growth — promoting gender equality and driving an inclusive, sustainable sector aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
To represent Indian Women in Maritime as part of WIMA ASIA and the larger global umbrella of Women in Maritime Associations under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Key Strategic Pillars of WIMA INDIA
- Mentorship & Leadership Development
Structured programs to nurture confidence, competence, and career advancement for women across maritime roles. - Education, Upskilling & Capacity Building
Workshops, masterclasses, and certification programs with national and international partners. - Research, Policy Support & Advocacy
Collaborations with government bodies to support progressive policies, safety frameworks, and gender-inclusive opportunities. - Community Support & Well-being
Programs for seafarers’ families, mental wellness awareness, and initiatives for women entering or re-entering the workforce.
National & Regional Collaborations
Partnerships with organisations under WIMA Asia and the IMO ecosystem to exchange best practices and drive regional progress.
Founder’s Statement
Speaking at the launch, Ms. Saleha Shaikh, Founder of WIMA INDIA, said:
“This launch marks a visionary step for India. The IMO and WIMA Asia have shown immense trust in our efforts. With this chapter, we aim to build a strong platform where women in maritime feel supported, recognised, and empowered to lead. India has incredible talent — and WIMA INDIA will work to unlock that potential through collaboration, capacity building, and community.”
Support from IMO & WIMA Asia
Representatives from IMO and WIMA Asia congratulated India on establishing this national chapter, emphasising the importance of India’s maritime sector and the need for greater gender inclusivity across the global maritime workforce.
A New Era for Women in India’s Maritime Sector
WIMA INDIA’s launch is expected to catalyse positive change across the industry by promoting diverse talent pipelines, leadership opportunities, and equitable participation of women at all levels.
The Association invites maritime organisations, academic institutions, policymakers, and professionals across India to collaborate in shaping this transformative journey.
Media Contact
Women In Maritime Association – India (WIMA INDIA)
Email: support@wimaindia.org
Website: www.wimaindia.org
Phone: +91 99209 32520
Social Media : @wima.india