In a world where the vast oceans have long been a symbol of dominance, power, and often, patriarchy, Monica Kohli sails a different course—one that embraces equality, inclusion, and innovation. A name now synonymous with maritime law, Monica Kohli is not only reshaping the legal framework of global shipping but is also shifting cultural tides, inspiring generations of women to anchor their dreams in an industry traditionally ruled by men.
Her story is more than a career timeline—it’s a voyage of resilience, foresight, and purpose, charted from a childhood spent at sea to international leadership at the helm of transformation.
Monica Kohli: Born of the Sea – A Childhood Shaped by the Ocean
Monica’s connection to the maritime world was written in the waves. Born to a seasoned sea captain, she spent the first five years of her life navigating the world aboard merchant vessels. Those early moments, framed by salt-stung winds and boundless horizons, fostered a deep-rooted affinity for the sea—a compass that would eventually guide her professional life.
But even as her heart yearned for the deck of a ship, reality had different plans. With a visible absence of female seafarers around her, Monica chose a different route—one where she could still influence the tides. She pursued her undergraduate degree at the esteemed National Law School of India, followed by an MBA and a specialist career in maritime law that spanned continents and decades.
A Global Force in Maritime Law and Innovation
Monica Kohli is a senior solicitor with dual qualifications in India and England & Wales. For over twenty years, she has stood as a formidable figure in shipping and trade law. Her journey began in Indian courtrooms and evolved into her current role as a Senior Lawyer at Gard—the world’s largest Protection and Indemnity (P&I) Club—where she has advised clients from London to Dubai, Oslo to Hong Kong, and beyond.
Her clientele includes shipowners, charterers, and international traders, all of whom benefit from her legal expertise and her passion for efficiency, legal technology, and innovation. Monica has spearheaded internal initiatives using AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP), aligning legal operations with modern, sustainable, and lean methodologies.
Monica Kohli: Leading With Purpose – Women in Shipping and Trade Association (WISTA UK)
If her legal accomplishments weren’t inspiring enough, Monica’s dedication to empowering women in the industry truly sets her apart. As the President of WISTA UK and Chair of the Indian Maritime Association UK, Monica has championed the cause of gender equality in one of the most male-dominated sectors in the world.
Her leadership in WISTA UK has ushered in transformational change. Under her guidance, the organization celebrated its 50th anniversary in July 2025 with a landmark event in London, spotlighting decades of progress and a renewed commitment to inclusivity. The event was graced by notable allies including His Excellency Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the IMO, who endorsed gender-balanced representation on panels and platforms.
Mentorship, Bursaries, and a Vision for the Future
Monica’s initiatives are more than symbolic—they’re structural. In collaboration with the Maritime Education Fund and Maritime London Officer Cadet Scheme, WISTA UK, under her leadership, is funding the full training of five female maritime cadets in 2025. These women are not only receiving financial support but also membership and mentorship from industry veterans, directly helping bridge the glaring gender gap where women comprise only 2% of global seafarers.
Additionally, Monica has launched mentorship programs with Women in Transport UK, extending guidance and career support to emerging talent in maritime law and operations. Her vision is to normalize female success and visibility in the maritime ecosystem—where women lead panels, run companies, and influence policy.
Championing Diversity, Technology, and Sustainability
Monica Kohli doesn’t merely advocate for inclusion—she embodies it. A dynamic speaker on maritime law, legal tech, and gender equity, she travels across the UK and internationally, addressing forums in cities such as Istanbul, Singapore, and Mumbai.
She stresses the importance of responsible business practices and environmental stewardship in maritime operations. As a Maritime Skills Commissioner and a trustee for education and environmental law charities, Monica reinforces the essential role of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance in building future-proof maritime enterprises.
Her belief is clear: the greener the industry, the more accountable it becomes—not only to shareholders but to society at large.
Changing the Narrative: Women Leading the Change
In an interview with Maritime Fairtrade, Monica reflected on the critical role the media plays in portraying women’s stories in shipping. Rather than focusing only on the hurdles, she believes the narrative must include triumphs, resilience, and excellence. “We must celebrate women who break stereotypes,” she says. “Our stories are powerful, and they can transform the way industries think.”
This belief extends into her day-to-day work. Whether it’s partnering with the Royal Navy, collaborating with the International Maritime Organization, or hosting events across the UK—from Liverpool to Newcastle—Monica is constantly amplifying the message that inclusion and excellence go hand in hand.
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