The Mercy Ships floating hospital, the Africa Mercy, is the world’s largest charity-run hospital ship. Seafarers are the key workers who keep our ships operational and use their skills to deliver humanitarian development and transform thousands of lives each year. On International Day of the Seafarer, we honor seafarers everywhere and highlight four of our incredible volunteers who power our ships.
Rodrigo Silva is our general manager. Originally from Brazil, Rodrigo oversees deck maintenance, cargo operations, freshwater treatment, and navigation. He also leads the firefighting teams, among many other things.
“One of the highlights of volunteering with Mercy Ships is that I can do what I know how to do and have my family with me. One of the cornerstones of maritime life is that we're away and we miss the things that happen at home with the kids, with school, and with our partner. Being on board with Mercy Ships is different, as we can be together, work, and at the end of the day reunite with our family in the cabin. It's incredibly good.”.
When asked if he would recommend working at Mercy Ships to other seafarers, Rodrigo said without hesitation, “I would encourage seafarers to come. We live in a welcoming work environment with the satisfaction of seeing their work make a real difference in the lives of the patients we care for.”.
Are you a maritime professional? Can you join us in strengthening the healthcare systems we provide? Partner with us to bring hope and healing to those who need it most. Visit apply.mercyships.org.
