Perspective of Kelly

Kelly, from Anières (GE), will be the French teacher for the children of the Africa Mercy crew members for the next two years.

How did you hear about Mercy Ships?

Kelly: “I heard about Mercy Ships from my uncle and his wife who were on board the Anastasis. In 2001, I stayed one week with them, and a friend recently reminded me that I told her afterwards: "This is what I want to do in the future!" Here I am now, ten years later, fulfilling what was once a dream!”

What motivated you to apply?

“About twelve years ago, I visited friends in Zimbabwe. Since that trip, I have always been drawn to the African continent and always had the desire to go back. Last year, I injured my knee and had to have surgery. During recovery I had a lot of time to think about my future. I was graduating that same year and had no idea of what I was going to do next. I was of course drawn to children but at the same time I spoke four languages and wanted to continue to use them. This is how I got the idea to look into Mercy Ships.”

What were your first impressions when you saw the Africa Mercy?

“The first thing I said was: "Wow, this is amazing!" The ship was way bigger than I thought and I was fascinated by it. Then my next thought was: "This is going to be my home!" I was very excited to discover all the bits and pieces of the inside of this massive hospital ship.”

What were your first impressions in Sierra Leone?

“I was lucky to fully immerse myself in the country by working two weeks in a small community and interacting directly with the locals. Even though they live in one of the poorest countries of the world they have a constant smile on their faces. They are willing to make great changes in their lives after the war that ravaged their country and are open and very trusting. I think they are really an encouragement to us Westerners, to be satisfied with what we have and not always seek more.”

What is your motivation to work for free?

“One of my focuses for my teaching career is how to include and welcome children from different cultures. Working for an international organization that gathers around 40 different nationalities was a very interesting matter and challenge. The experience gained on the Africa Mercy will be so helpful for the future and for any prospective jobs, so I applied with no hesitation!”