The Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association, UK (WISTA UK) and the Indian Maritime Association (IMA UK) hosted a vibrant Diwali event  on 6 November 2024 at the offices of Holman Fenwick Willan (HFW), a renowned global law firm specializing in maritime law. The evening brought together prominent voices in the maritime industry, including key speakers such as Monica Kohli, Jose Matheickal, Dave Whyte,  Sagun Sudhir and Claire Womersley, to celebrate Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights.
Beyond its cultural significance, the event served as a platform for networking and also  addressing critical topics in maritime, such as diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Diwali, traditionally a celebration of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance, set a fitting theme for the gathering. Attendees from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds filled the beautifully decorated HFW venue, complete with traditional Diwali elements like rangoli designs and diyas (lamps).
The event emphasized WISTA UK and IMA UK’s shared vision of promoting diversity in the maritime industry, enhancing gender equality, and inspiring an inclusive, sustainable future.
Opening Remarks
Claire Womersley, pictured above, MNM awardee and a partner at HFW , a prominent figure in the maritime sector and the evening’s host, warmly welcomed attendees  to the event which was hosted by HFW in their beautiful new offices.  Monica Kohli, President of WISTA UK, took the stage to share her vision of a more inclusive and gender-diverse maritime industry. She acknowledged the existing challenges but also celebrated the strides made by women and minority groups in what has historically been a male-dominated sector.  She wished all attendees as happy Diwali and emphasized that Diwali’s message of unity and shared prosperity mirrors WISTA’s mission to foster a supportive network for women in shipping.
Jose Matheickal, known for his advocacy in maritime sustainability, delivered a compelling address on the importance of Diwali and the sustainable practices in maritime. He drew parallels between the symbolic act of lighting diyas and the maritime sector’s responsibility to illuminate the path toward a greener future. By incorporating innovations in green technology and sustainable operations, Jose suggested that the industry can fulfill its role in combating climate change and protecting marine ecosystems. His words encouraged attendees to view sustainability as a collective goal, transcending national and cultural boundaries, much like Diwali’s unifying spirit.
Dave Whyte, Dy Director, Maritime DfT,  a respected industry representative, echoed Diwali’s themes of togetherness and hope. He highlighted the importance of global collaboration and the need for unity in addressing the shipping sector’s challenges. Dave discussed current trends, from technological advancements to shifting trade patterns, urging attendees to harness these changes to build a more resilient, interconnected maritime industry. His speech underscored the idea that, much like Diwali brings families and communities together, the industry must work in harmony to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
HDW outdid themselves in providing great food! And also included traditional Bollywood music, vibrant rangoli artwork, fabulous decorations and highlighted the ceremonial lighting of diyas. These elements were appreciated  by the attendees. The networking segments allowed industry professionals to engage in lively discussions about the future of maritime, opportunities for collaboration, and the importance of cultural awareness in fostering a truly global industry.
Sagun Sudhir, Secretary IMA UK, Associate Seagreen law closed the evening with reflections on the powerful messages shared by the speakers and thanked all the speakers and the Host for making us feel so welcome and hosting a lavish Diwali evening for members and guests. He  said he looked forward to working collaboratively to create a brighter future for maritime.
The Diwali event organized by WISTA UK and IMA UK at HFW was more than just a celebration; it was a reflection on the transformative values of light, unity, and shared prosperity. It reinforced the importance of embracing cultural heritage within a global industry and highlighted the shared mission of these associations to promote an inclusive and sustainable future.
The Diwali spirit—symbolizing new beginnings and collective progress—hopefully continues to influence the maritime industry’s journey forward.
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John Faraclas and Anny Zade where there with their cameras.
