Basra, Iraq :: Logos Hope celebrates the many volunteers that assisted with her visit to Basra, Iraq.
Each port visit wouldn’t be complete without an important group of people: the port volunteers. The volunteers assist the ship’s crew to run the bookfair, give tours of the ship, support other departments, translate conversations into the local language and much more.
In Basra, the local government organised university students to be English translation volunteers on board Logos Hope. The Iraqi volunteers connected with crewmembers in a special way, becoming friends and taking them on outings.
Saif, the Iraqi volunteer coordinator, said, “I want to thank Logos Hope’s staff and crew for this amazing experience. We came to Logos Hope to volunteer, but instead we joined a big family full of love, passion and compassion. You are amazing! What we have done together was something extraordinary. Together with the translators, we made history for Basra, Iraq and Logos Hope!”
Colin (South Africa) said, “We are leaving part of our hearts here in Basra. It’s going to be really hard to sail away because you have become part of our lives. We will never forget you.”
Mimi (Brazil) said, “I am so happy to have got to know you. Iraq is my home now. Thank you so much for your care and your love. I will miss you so much.”
Mahide, a local volunteer, said, “Everyone is so kind and I have appreciated your work. I’ve never seen anything like this. This was my first time translating in person instead of just documents from my room. This was incredible, life-changing! Thank you so much for this experience.”
Tina (Romania) said, “I have been on board Logos Hope for 18 months, and Iraq is the highlight of my journey. Just like a key piece of a chain, you connected us with Basra, making everything smooth and understandable. You can bring a piece of Logos Hope with you by showing to others how to live with peace, joy and love, even with many differences between cultures.”
Jasim, another volunteer, said, “For a long time, I’ve been dreaming to see all the nations united together and Logos Hope gave me an example of this. There are over 65 nationalities on board. It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve seen. It has been a privilege working with you. Thank you!”
Logos Hope’s community has been deeply impacted by this unique group of Iraqi volunteers and cannot thank them enough for their service during the ship’s time in Basra.