Indian Women Founders Share 2025 Reflections & Outlook for 2026

By: WE Staff

Sanjam Sahi Gupta, Founder, Maritime SheEO

For Sanjam, 2025 brought lessons about leadership behaviours being gender agnostic. Going forward, in 2026, she envisions creating a strong balance between her work and personal life.

Key Learnings in 2025

In 2025, I observed various leadership styles within my network. This experience highlighted that leadership behaviours are not inherently tied to gender.

One of my biggest learnings is that women, like men, can exhibit both positive and negative leadership qualities. This realization is crucial, as it challenges the stereotype that women are always supportive or nurturing leaders. It has made me more mindful of the dynamics in female leadership roles and the importance of holding everyone accountable, regardless of gender.

Understanding that bad leadership can manifest anywhere has motivated me to advocate for more inclusive support among women. Rather than overlooking negative behaviors because they come from fellow women, I aim to encourage an environment where we can openly discuss and correct those behaviors, thus fostering genuine support and growth among women leaders.

Sanjam’s 2026 Vision Aims to Achieve Work-Life Balance

For 2026, I aim to prioritize my health while maintaining my commitment to work.

Focusing on my health is essential, not just for my own well-being but also to model a balanced lifestyle to my colleagues. I believe that a healthy mind and body can enhance my productivity and resilience in the workplace.

About Sanjam Sahi Gupta: She is a prominent advocate for gender diversity in the maritime sector. As the founder of WISTA India, she has facilitated a platform for women in the maritime sector. Her expertise as a gender specialist recognized by the UN ESCAP and the International Maritime Organization drives inclusive change in the industry.