Newest Sub-chapter of WISTA Inaugurated in Kochi

The newst sub–chapter of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association – was inaugurated in Kochi on the 29th of August 2014, making it the fifth chapter in the country. The sub-chapter was launched as a part of the 2nd Hotel, and was attended by eminent personalities from the Indian maritime industry.

Mr Umesh Grover, CEO of Indian National Ship owner’s Association (INSA), and Mr Prakash Iyer, President of Cochin Steamer Agents Association (CSAA) inaugurated the launch as esteemed representatives of the industry and supporters of WISTA.

Ms Sanjam Sahi Gupta, the President of WISTA India and Director of Sitara Shipping Ltd says, "In only our 2nd year since inception, WISTA India has launched its 5th Chapter and we hope to soon have many more."

The launch of the sub-chapter was marked by the unveiling and handing over of the WISTA flag to the dignitaries by the WISTA India Treasurer and Director of GAC Shipping (India) Pvt Ltd, Ms Miriam Mathews. An introduction to WISTA and its activities was presented to the august gathering by Ms Mathews, and the sub-chapter was declared open by Mr Grover. Also on the dais was Ms Adv Roshni Manuel, WISTA Kochi in-charge, who is a Maritime Lawyer and shipping associate at United Maritime Law Chambers, Cochin. The event was supported by India SeaTrade, which graciously provided a platform for WISTA India to launch the sub-chapter.

The Kochi sub-chapter of WISTA, though in its beginning stages, received support from the shipping and trading industry, with positive responses from the ladies in managerial positions of the industry coming forward to attend the launch, including Sheela Manuel- Sr. Manager ( Regional Accounts) United Liner Agencies of India Pvt Ltd, Vidya Hari- Manager- (Electrical design) SMART Engineering & Design Solutions(India) Pvt. Ltd, Arathi - Delegate WISTA Chennai, Mini Eapen- Customer Service Manager, A.P Moller Terminal, Asha Pillai- Shipping Consultant and academician and Leni Paul-Shipping lawyer.

The activities of the Kochi chapter will begin immediately, with workshops and networking meetings being planned. A port tour and vessel visit for all the WISTA Kochi members is on the agenda, and all ladies who would like to attend this event are invited to contact WISTA at [email protected] or at the phone number +91 961 901 7728.

With the goals to spearhead educational, networking and career opportunities whilst creating a common platform for the managerial women of Kochi, the membership registrations for WISTA were also made open at the launch ceremony and remains open throughout the year.