Shanghai International Shipping Institute

THE international seafarer welfare charity, Mission to Seafarers, announced winners of its inaugural Seafarers Awards at a recent dinner in Singapore.

Servet Akturk a pumpman with Zenith Maritime hailing from Turkey received an award for his significant contribution to the welfare of his fellow crewmen aboard the tanker Good Lady.

A talented woodworker, Mr Akturk has contributed greatly to the social life onboard his vessel by making a pinball table for the crew and new equipment for the onboard gym.

Mr Akturk also makes personal gifts for specific individuals and writes poetry. Akturk was nominated for this award by his Chief Officer who has seen the impact that his hobby has had on the rest of the crew.

The next award went to a captain whose approachable and considerate leadership has supported his crew directly and positioned him as a true role model to his officers and others within his company, Via Marine Philippines.

Capt Jonathan Adriatico "patient and good-humoured attitude has helped his crews grow and learn and has set an excellent example to other aspiring captains of the good that can be done in the role".

Capt Rajesh Unni was presented the award for the shore-based individual who had significantly contributed to seafarers' welfare.

A truly remarkable individual, Capt Unni who is the founder and CEO of Synergy Group, has had a tremendous welfare impact both on specific individuals and on the wider seafaring community.

In addition to the financial support and low-interest loans offered to seafarers and his direct action to support greater gender equality in the maritime workforce, the judges were also impressed with his personal generosity.

Said mission secretary general Andrew Wright: "Seafarers are so often overlooked or undervalued for the vital part they play in the everyday lives of people everywhere.

"Away at sea for months at time it can be all too easy for individuals and organisations to fall into the trap of 'out of sight, out of mind'. The recipients of today's awards challenge that in every way, making a real difference personally and professionally to the welfare of seafarers." said the Rev Canon Wright.

Said development director Jan Webber: "This was an amazing evening honouring truly remarkable contributions to seafarer welfare from around the world. Over S$140,000 (US$) has been raised by the event, which will go towards funding the Mission in Singapore.