Meet the Crew: Femi Adesanya
Growing up in Nigeria, Femi Adesanya never dreamed of a career at sea.
He studied diplomacy and public relations and says it was expected in his culture to return home, find a good paying job and care for his family.
However, Femi had a curiosity about missions and pursued training at a Disciple Training School through Youth With A Mission in Ghana. There he met many Mercy Shippers who were committing to Mercy Ships long-term. They shared about Mercy Ships’ mission of bringing hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor.
“It was hard for me to picture a ship, treating people but I began to look into it. I went on the internet and I looked at pictures of patients before and after and they were almost unbelievable for me. I couldn’t believe it was true.”
Femi decided to join the ship in Benin in 2009 as day crew and after serving two field services as day crew he decided that he was being called to the ship full time. He served for 15 months as a receptionist before moving to the deck department.
“I had no knowledge of what the maritime industry is like, I knew almost nothing about sea faring.”
Two years later and Femi has climbed the ranks from deckhand to deck rating, working towards an able seafarer license and will soon be able to apply for an officer of the watch license. Femi has had the benefit of training sponsored by Mercy Ships, which he can use internationally should he decide to pursue a career as a sailor.
“The good thing about working in the deck department is that there is opportunity to learn every day. Just when you think you know it all there is still an opportunity to learn.”
According to Femi, it is the drive to excellence that sets Mercy Ships apart from other organizations.
“I see excellence in all that we say and do. People’s motivation and creativity is normally tied to the income they get and here is a place where you serve without being paid yet you strive to do everything with excellence. That’s really special.”
We are so proud of Femi and all volunteers onboard the Africa Mercy. They truly are the lifeblood of Mercy Ships!
Are you interested in volunteering? Click here for current volunteer opportunities!
The Woman Who Forged Her Way Through Walls: Florence Bangura’s Story
Florence’s journey from oldest to newest Mercy Ship came full circle when she met the Global Mercy™ in 2023, the same year that the purpose-built hospital ship began welcoming its patients on board. Today, you can find Florence, now 49 years old, down in the engine room as a hotel engineering assistant.
Transforming Sierra Leone’s Healthcare: A Vision for Safe and Affordable Surgery
As experts from the surgical and healthcare world gather for the 64th Annual Conference and Scientific Meeting of the West African College of Surgeons in Sierra Leone this week, a profound dedication to advancing surgical knowledge and practice in the region is palpable. At the forefront of discussions lies the conference’s pivotal theme: access to safe and affordable surgical and anesthetic care in West Africa. This theme highlights the pressing need to address disparities in healthcare capabilities and capacities across the region, especially the critical importance of equitable access to quality surgical interventions.
The Africa Mercy Arrives in Madagascar to Bring Hope and Healing Anew
Freshly refitted hospital ship, the upgraded Africa Mercy® has arrived at the island nation to build on the charity’s longstanding collaboration and will provide specialized surgeries in various fields, including maxillofacial and ear nose and throat, general, pediatric specialized general, pediatric orthopedic, cataract surgery, and reconstructive plastics.
Reuniting with Vanya, Years After Surgery
In 2015, in an operating room on board the Africa Mercy while docked in Madagascar, the course of Vanya’s life changed.
Years have now passed since Vanya’s journey toward healing. In the time since, her improved ability to walk allowed her to return to school, where she loved studying environmental science and learning about the world around her.
Christmas-Thank You Message from Darryl Anderson
Darryl Anderson shares his thank you message after Christmas to express his gratitude for your support and dedication to our mission.
Kadidja: A Future as Bright as her Smile
At Mercy Ships Canada, we serve those who have lost hope, bringing healing and transformation. Our volunteers, inspired by their faith, work selflessly to perform surgeries that renew not only bodies but also faith and hope. This Christmas, be a part of the miracle by making a donation to Mercy Ships Canada. Your contribution will help renew faith and offer a second chance at life. Together, we can make a significant impact on those who have suffered for too long.
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