Indian women seafarers get AWOS maritime boost now

The Hong Kong headquartered world’s leading ship management company, and also a major employer of Indian seafarers, Anglo-Eastern Group recently launched ‘Anglo-Eastern Women of Sea’ (AWOS) network primarily to provide a global platform for women seafarers to share knowledge and experiences besides providing mentorship and support.

“AWOS will bring a sense of community and empowerment among the women associated with the group. It will also address the gender imbalance that exists within the maritime industry. Women seafarers will be extended support to overcome career challenges,” said Maneesh Pradhan, managing director of Anglo-Eastern Ship Management India – the Indian subsidiary of AWOS.

As regards India, AWOS will provide mentoring and networking opportunities to women seafarers under seasoned maritime professionals from across the globe, including those from merchant navy. It will draft policies that will advocate rights of women seafarers and strive for gender equality and diversity.

India’s leading shipping association Maritime Association of ShipownersShipmanagers and Agents (MASSA) has also pledged to boost Indian women in the seafaring profession.

Anglo-Eastern Group intends to expand its existing pool of skilled Indian seafarers in the current year since India is regarded as a major supplier of trained maritime manpower for the international shipping industry.

Bjorn Hojgaard, CEO of Anglo-Eastern Group, said, “India is an extremely important country for our growth as Indians are hardworking, intelligent and passionate. Proficiency in English stands as a distinct advantage.”