Romeeta Bundela stepped into the vast, heat-blasted engine rooms of merchant ships where few women have tread—and made her mark. In December 2017, fresh from her course at Tolani Maritime Institute, she boarded a Maersk container vessel as the first Indian woman ETO, surrounded by 20 men who doubted her place. The manager’s words were blunt: “Go home, this job isn’t for you.” Yet she persisted. Over years she moved from ETO cadet to senior positions, now working with Carnival UK, and supervising dozens of vessels and electrical systems globally.

Her early life in Bhusawal, Maharashtra, was far from the roaring seas; she trained hard in electrical or electronic disciplines before pursuing the rigorous ETO programme. Life aboard brings its own trials: sweltering engine rooms (50-55° C), months away from home, and at times being the only woman onboard. The COVID-19 pandemic tested her resolve—she spent nine months stuck at sea with no relief.

Romeeta’s story isn’t just about career achievements—it’s about dismantling gender bias, redefining what’s possible, and inspiring others. Her message to women: talent, grit, and focus matter much more than prejudices. She proves that even in extreme surroundings, one can rise, lead, and reclaim that space.