#HospitalShip - After a year of preparation, the first volunteers from Stena Line are on board Mercy Ships’ hospital ship Africa Mercy.

In addition to fundraising and raising awareness for the humanitarian NGO, Stena Line aims to contribute to the organisation with its maritime knowledge and the unique technical and naval competence held by its employees.

During the year, a minimum of two Stena Line employees will work for Mercy Ships.   The first volunteer was Third Engineer Johnny Joensuu.  Johnny joined the ship in Camerun and is currently aiding sailing the ship to Las Palmas where it will be docked for maintenance before setting sail for Guinea.  Johnny will also be joined by Stena Line’s second volunteer Maria Ekstrand.

“It’s always exciting to be the first one out and you’ll get a chance like this once in your life. I really enjoy life onboard, the atmosphere is great and everyone has been very helpful. Also, we just passed the equator which is something I’ve always wanted to do.” said Johnny Joensuu.

The volunteer program is part of Stena Line’s sustainability work which bridges over all three dimensions of sustainability namely economic, ecologic and social.

“For us, social responsibility is about being a sustainable employer and to contribute to a more sustainable world by helping others. Thanks to our partnership with Mercy Ships we are able to share the knowledge and experience we have after 50 years in this business, and more importantly the unique technical and naval competence held by its employees.” commented Niclas Mårtensson, CEO at Stena Line.

Stena Line’s volunteer program was launched in 2017 and employees from all of the shipping company’s eight regions are encouraged to apply.  In line with Mercy Ships' values, all volunteers work for free, however Stena Line guarantees leave of absence and provides for the journey and all required vaccinations.

About Mercy Ships

Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to deliver free, world-class health care services, capacity building and sustainable development to those without access in the developing world. Founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships has worked in more than 70 countries providing services valued at more than $1.3 billion, treating more than 2.5 million direct beneficiaries. Each year Mercy Ships efforts involve an average of 1,000 volunteers from up to 40 nations. For more information please visit www.mercyships.org