Aspirations of the Next Generation | Day of the Seafarer 2026

Echoing the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) theme, “Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks,” the International Maritime Institute (IMI) joined The Caravel Group and Fleet Management in recognising the vital role seafarers play in keeping the world moving.

More than 80% of global trade is transported by sea, yet the people behind it often go unnoticed. Through a range of activities and discussions, IMI helped shine a light on the importance of seafarers and the opportunities available to the next generation of maritime professionals.

Over the past year, more than 500 cadets have graduated, with many going on to begin their careers with Fleet Management.

A recent poll of 75 IMI cadets showed a shared understanding of the profession they are preparing to join. Cadets recognise that seafarers keep global trade moving, often in demanding conditions, helping to ensure food, fuel and everyday goods reach people around the world.

For many cadets, a career at sea offers more than travel. It offers responsibility, continuous learning and the opportunity to make a real difference.

As one cadet explained:

“We are the backbone of international trade… we move the world’s trade and ensure the global supply chain keeps running.”

Ashok Venugopal, GME43

Another highlighted the purpose behind the profession:

“Seafarers enable world trade, energy supply, and food distribution… it is a career with purpose, pride, and lifelong learning.”

Alok Kumar, BTech 20

IMI Cadets Meet Irfan Pathan

As part of the celebrations, a group of IMI cadets visited Fleet Management’s headquarters in Andheri, Mumbai.

There, they joined seafarers and shore-based colleagues for a special session with former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan, who shared his appreciation for the people who keep global trade moving.

Drawing on his experience in international cricket, Pathan spoke about the qualities that connect sport and seafaring: discipline, teamwork, trust and the ability to perform under pressure.

“What stood out to me today is the pride everyone has in their profession, which is outstanding,” he said. “Being a seafarer is not just about the job. It is about responsibility, teamwork, and performing under pressure every single day.”

He also reflected on the similarities between cricket and life at sea.

“On the field we prepare, trust our team, and deliver in tough situations. Seafarers do the same, just on a much larger stage where the stakes are global.”

During the visit, Pathan spent time with IMI cadets discussing growth, character and leadership. He shared lessons from his own career on handling pressure, learning from setbacks and staying focused on long-term goals.

The session gave cadets the opportunity to hear directly from an international sportsman about the mindset required to succeed in demanding environments, whether on the cricket field or at sea.

Reflecting on Our Connection to the Ocean

Back on campus, students and colleagues gathered for a screening of Ocean with David Attenborough.

The event encouraged participants to learn more about the oceans that support global trade and sustain life on Earth. It also highlighted the importance of protecting marine environments and the positive impact that conservation efforts can have.

For IMI cadets preparing for careers at sea, it was a timely reminder that seafarers do more than move global trade. They also have a shared responsibility to care for the oceans that connect our world.