08 Sep Celebrating long-term partnership with Seapeak
Three years ago, UK-based shipping company Seapeak joined forces with Mercy Ships, allowing their employees the opportunity to share their skills on board our two hospital ships.
Today we look back and celebrate the incredible ways that each of those seafarers has supported the mission of Mercy Ships to deliver free, life-saving surgeries and medical care in sub-Saharan Africa.
Over the last three years, seven Seapeak employees have served on our vessels, bringing their valuable maritime skills as officers and engineers to the crew.
Konrad joined Mercy Ships in 2024 as the Life-Saving Appliances Officer. Since then, he’s returned twice, covering over 10 months of service and taking on the role of Safety Officer, before being promoted to Chief Officer.
Konrad shares about his time with Mercy Ships and how it compares to his work on other vessels:
“There is no cargo or passengers; everyone is part of the team and really friendly. The biggest difference is that the main focus on board is on human beings and values, not on making money from goods.
“At the beginning, it was really hard because I had to change my behaviour a bit from a professional maritime, sometimes rough, background to a more approachable way of working. But I have to say that it suits me.
“One of the highlights from my last trip was having the chance to become a Chief Officer and test myself in the new role. It was during the most challenging time for the vessel, just at the end of the three-year field service in Freetown, so I had to prepare the vessel for departure and make a plan. I had good support from the others, and I think everything went well.
“Another highlight was the patients. It was a really rewarding experience to see all of the people seeking help and actually receiving it on board.”
Having served with Mercy Ships on three occasions, Konrad shares his advice for other maritime professionals thinking of taking part in the partnership scheme:
“If you really want to change something in your life and look at your career from a new perspective, it is the place to go. First of all, you will find lovely people and friends, and secondly, most importantly, you can find meaning in your work and give a little part of yourself to others.”
Seafarers are a critical part of Mercy Ships’ volunteer workforce. Rather than reach out to contractors for urgent roles, Mercy Ships can utilise this partnership and take on Seapeak volunteers who understand our culture and requirements, resulting in cost savings every time.
“Over the past three years, our partnership with Mercy Ships has continued to demonstrate the meaningful impact that can be achieved when maritime expertise is combined with a commitment to giving back,” says Chris McDade, Vice President of Operations at Seapeak.
“During this time, we have proudly supported the programme by providing seven Junior Officers with the opportunity to serve onboard Mercy Ships. Each one of our seafarers has embraced the experience as a unique development opportunity, gaining valuable professional and personal skills while working in a completely different environment.
“Feedback has been consistently positive, with all Officers thoroughly enjoying the programme and returning with broader perspectives, enhanced capabilities, and a deeper appreciation for the life-changing work being delivered.
“We remain committed to supporting this important initiative and the positive impact it creates for both our seafarers and the communities served by Mercy Ships.”
Thank you Seapeak for this partnership that allows Mercy Ships to continue its life-saving work.