- Strengthens Women’s Role in Aviation Security and Governance at WIAW 2025
New Delhi. 13 March 2025. The Women in Aviation Week 2025 (WIAW 2025), hosted by the WICCI National Aviation Council (WICCI NAC), successfully concluded its virtual event on March 8, 2025. The week-long initiative, held from March 1 to March 8, brought together aviation leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss critical issues shaping the future of aviation. The event featured insightful expert talks, a first-of-its-kind global speed networking initiative, and the launch of groundbreaking research initiatives, solidifying its role as a platform for advancing women’s leadership in aviation, aerospace, and strategic governance.
Expert-Led Conversations on Aviation and Governance
Throughout the week, renowned experts and industry veterans shared their insights on various aspects of aviation, aerospace innovation, human factors, and aviation security.
The discussions kicked off on March 1 with Wing Commander Jaya Tare (Retd.), CEO of Newrizon Space Bangalore, emphasizing the importance of thinking like a pilot to transform professional decision-making. On the same day, Naveed Noormal, a former Afghan diplomat, addressed the role of aviation in disarmament, particularly in tackling gender-based violence (GBV) and conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in war zones.
As the week progressed, speakers covered diverse topics such as drones in education, the impact of sleep on aircrew performance, and mental health in aviation. Notable contributions included Alina Usmani’s discussion on drone technology’s role in revolutionizing education and Dr. Shilpa Khanna’s insights on sleep science for aircrew.
On March 5, Captain Christine Debouzy, a former A380 pilot at Air France, chronicled the struggles and successes of women pilots throughout aviation history. The sessions continued with Lakshmi Shree Vijayakumar inspiring women to reach new heights in aerospace and Dr. Harpreet A De Singh, President of IWPA, leading a discussion on the “25 by 2025” mission to empower women in aviation.
The event concluded with a powerful International Women’s Day special on March 8, featuring Shelli Brunswick, CEO of SB Global LLC, exploring the intersection of space and aviation governance, followed by Lynn Frederick Dsouza, National President of WICCI Aviation Council, shedding light on existential risks in aviation disarmament foresight.
Global Speed Networking Initiative: Wings of Wisdom
One of the highlights of WIAW 2025 was the launch of the Wings of Wisdom Global Speed Networking Week, a structured knowledge-sharing initiative designed to connect women in aviation, aerospace, and governance worldwide.
Participants engaged in 30-minute one-on-one conversations, with 15 minutes dedicated to sharing expertise and 15 minutes focused on learning. This non-monetary initiative successfully fostered global connections, allowing women from aviation management, strategy, and governance to exchange insights and strengthen professional relationships.
Groundbreaking Research and Strategic Initiatives
WIAW 2025 also served as a launchpad for two major initiatives, both aimed at strengthening aviation’s role in global security and disarmament:
WICCI NAC Task Force on Gender-Responsive Disarmament in Aviation
The first-ever initiative of its kind, focusing on integrating aviation into peacebuilding, gender equality, and humanitarian efforts. This initiative aims to ensure that aviation plays a crucial role in conflict prevention and global disarmament policies.
Multi-Disciplinary International Security Future Research Centre
A pioneering research hub designed to tackle global security challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic foresight. The center will focus on developing data-driven security policies, aviation risk assessments, and future-forward governance frameworks.
A Vision for the Future
WIAW 2025 reinforced the importance of inclusive governance, ethical aviation policies, and gender equity in aviation security. Through expert insights, collaborative networking, and strategic research initiatives, the event:
✔ Strengthened global collaboration in aviation security and disarmament foresight
✔ Elevated women’s voices in aviation leadership and policy-making
✔ Encouraged innovation in aerospace education and technology
✔ Highlighted the need for transparent and accountable security frameworks
With a firm commitment to empowering women in aviation and aerospace, WICCI NAC has set the stage for stronger international partnerships, progressive policies, and a more inclusive aviation industry. As the momentum continues, WIAW 2025 has established itself as a defining moment for women in global aviation leadership.
