As part of IMU's ongoing Samudra Gyana initiative, Er. Chirag Bahri, a prominent advocate for seafarer welfare and the Chief of Operations and Development at the International Seafarers Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN), led an insightful session on the critical need for support systems for seafarers, especially during times of crisis. His presentation drew from his own life-changing experiences, providing a unique perspective on the challenges faced by seafarers worldwide. Chirag Bahri’s Story and Mission: In 2010, Chirag was held hostage by Somali pirates during a hijacking. This traumatic experience reshaped his career, driving him to dedicate his life to supporting seafarers and their families affected by piracy and other maritime challenges. Today, through his work at ISWAN, he leads global initiatives aimed at establishing vital support structures that ensure the safety, well-being, and mental health of seafarers. The session was a rich learning experience for IMU’s faculty and staff, fostering a deeper awareness of the global issues impacting the maritime industry. Participants, both in-person and virtual, were actively engaged in the discussion, with the opportunity to ask Chirag questions and gain a deeper understanding of ISWAN’s initiatives.