Empowering Women in Maritime: Highlights from the Maritime SheEO Conference 2025

In late October 2025, the International Maritime SheEO Conference took place in Mumbai, India, emphasizing the importance of women's contributions to the maritime industry. Organized under the theme "Believe - Achieve - Lead: Inspiring Women in Maritime," this event marked its sixth iteration since its inception in 2020, attracting over 500 participants from maritime-related companies worldwide.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), recognized as a gold partner, played a prominent role by featuring keynotes from influential figures within the company. Among the representatives were Animesh Hore, the head of Global Maritime Resources, and Naoko Matsushita, Japan’s first female captain in a comprehensive shipping company, who inspired attendees with their messages celebrating women's achievements in the industry. Additionally, a group of 20 female employees from the company, including marine crew and trainees, actively participated in the event, sharing their experiences and insights into seafaring careers.

The conference served not just as a platform for discussions but also fostered networking opportunities, enabling participants to engage in meaningful conversations about their career aspirations and challenges.

One significant aspect of this year's event was the inaugural "MOL Women Seafarers' Conference," aimed specifically at supporting female mariners. This conference honored the accomplishments of MOL's female crew members and provided a forum for female maritime professionals to exchange their experiences while promoting the unique opportunities available in the maritime field. The addition of sessions led by specially appointed welfare officers and psychologists offered vital psychological support, helping to address the challenges faced by female crew in often isolating maritime environments.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines is firmly committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), positioning these values as a new engine for growth. The company is actively creating an inclusive environment where all crew members can work confidently and effectively. With a goal of increasing the proportion of female seafarers to 35% by 2035, MOL is dedicated to advancing women's roles in maritime. Initiatives like the wellness support program "OceanCare" exemplify their commitment to mental health services and tailored support for female seafarers.

As the maritime industry evolves, companies like Mitsui O.S.K. Lines continue to lead the charge in fostering an inclusive work environment dedicated to empowering women. Their initiatives exemplify a significant shift towards recognizing and supporting the vital roles women play in the maritime sector. Through conferences such as the Maritime SheEO Conference, the maritime community can celebrate the achievements of women while inspiring future generations to pursue careers at sea.

MOL remains steadfast in its commitment to DEI, ensuring that all seafarers, regardless of gender, can thrive within the organization. The impact of the Maritime SheEO Conference will continue to resonate, encouraging more companies to take similar steps towards inclusivity in maritime professions.