Who are your welfare champions? Nominations closing soon for The Mission to Seafarers’ annual Seafarers Awards

Your chance to honour those who have made a significant contribution to seafarers’ welfare

LONDON, 18 June 2024 – The Mission to Seafarers, a leading international seafarer welfare charity, invites nominations for its prestigious Seafarers Awards Singapore 2024 as the deadline approaches.

Now in its 7th year, the annual awards have become a cornerstone of the Singapore maritime calendar, celebrating individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to enhancing the welfare of seafarers globally.

The Awards Ceremony serves as a testament to the industry’s commitment to seafarer welfare. Taking place on Friday, 11 October 2024, maritime professionals from around the globe will gather for the gala dinner, held at the illustrious Fairmont Singapore Hotel, to celebrate the backbone of the industry – seafarers. This year’s event promises an evening of networking and celebration as we honour the invaluable contributions of seafarers, shore staff, and shipping companies.

Jan Webber, Director of Development at The Mission to Seafarers, emphasises the critical significance of recognising initiatives dedicated to seafarers’ welfare, commenting:

“In the face of unprecedented challenges, it is more important than ever to commend those who tirelessly champion seafarers’ welfare and strive to enhance industry standards. We invite all to submit their nominations and join us in acknowledging those who go above and beyond, in their contributions to seafarers’ wellbeing.”

The Mission to Seafarers invites individuals and organisations to nominate deserving candidates for the following categories:

Seafarer Award – The seafarer who has made a significant contribution to welfare at sea.
Shore-based Award – The shore-based person who has made a significant contribution to seafarers’ welfare.
Cadet Award –The Cadet or Trainee who has made a significant contribution to seafarers’ welfare at sea or ashore.
Innovation Award – The company that has embraced a new programme, project, or training which has enhanced seafarers’ welfare.
Rescue Award – The Captain or Crew who has coordinated a successful rescue operation to save lives at sea.
Secretary General Award – The person or company who has shown sustained efforts to improve seafarers’ welfare at sea or ashore.

The Mission to Seafarers would like to thank its generous sponsors for their continuing support and commitment to the Seafarers’ Awards event into this seventh year.

Special thanks go to Founding Gold Sponsors, Shell and BHP, and our Gold Sponsor, Pacific International Lines (PIL), as well as Silver Sponsors, NorthStandard, Bureau Veritas, Singapore Organisation of Seamen (SOS), Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU), ASP Ships Group, West of England P&I Club and Fleet Management Ltd. The Mission is also grateful to Welcome Drinks Sponsor, Holman Fenwick Willan (HFW). Finally, new this year is Bahri Ship Management as Videography and Photography Sponsor.

Andrew Wright, Secretary General of The Mission to Seafarers, underscores the enduring challenges faced by seafarers and highlights the crucial role the industry plays in safeguarding their mental health and wellbeing:

“The importance of investing in seafarer wellbeing cannot be overstated and The Mission to Seafarers is dedicated to supporting seafarers around the clock in over 200 locations worldwide. However, it is also imperative to recognise the unwavering commitment of all those committed to helping all seafarers enjoy a safe, secure and rewarding career at sea. The Seafarers Awards serve not only as a celebration but as a vital platform to raise awareness and extend appreciation for the unsung heroes who have significantly impacted the lives of seafarers worldwide.”

Teng Huar Lee, General Manager Shipping and Maritime, Asia Pacific Middle East, Shell, said: “With around 90% of traded goods being transported via sea worldwide, we deeply appreciate the dedication and commitment of our seafarers. At Shell, we strive to achieve Goal Zero each day where we seek to improve safety. Join us in celebrating the contributions that have been made by seafarers worldwide.”

Rashpal Bhatti, Vice President, Maritime & Supply Chain Execellence for BHP, said: “At BHP, we are committed to seafarer welfare and this extends to fostering a culture of respect, inclusion and support on every vessel we charter, ensuring all crew members feel valued for their tireless contribution to the maritime industry.”

Mr Lars Kastrup, CEO for Pacific International Lines (PIL), said: “Our seafarers play an essential role in the maritime industry, contributing to the smooth functioning of the global supply chains. As the world becomes more complex with changing geopolitical landscapes and emerging uncertainties, the seafarers’ contributions and dedication is helping shipping lines navigate the challenges. 

“It is therefore more critical than ever for the maritime industry to collectively give stronger recognition to seafarers. By shining a spotlight on seafarers and their work, we help to improve their lives and livelihood. This is where the good work of The Mission to Seafarers comes in, and we commend them for their commitment in supporting seafarers and their families through the very personal and dedicated efforts on board the ships and at the ports. PIL is honoured to be a partner of The Mission, and we would like to encourage all to lend your support to the Seafarers Awards 2024 by nominating your seafarers. Our best wishes to The Mission for another successful event this year!”

To submit a nomination, please download and complete the nomination form available on the Mission to Seafarers website: https://www.missiontoseafarers.org/events/seafarers-awards-singapore-2024

The deadline for nominations is Thursday, 18 July 2024. Nominations should be sent along with supporting evidence to Abiola Oladunni.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and tables at the awards evening can be booked. For sponsorship enquiries or table reservations, please email Jan Webber.

About Mission for Seafarers:
The Mission to Seafarers provides help and support to the 1.89 million men and women who face danger every day to keep our global economy afloat. The Mission works in over 200 ports in 50 countries caring for seafarers of all ranks, nationalities and beliefs. Through its global network of chaplains, staff and volunteers, the Mission offer practical, emotional and spiritual support to seafarers through ship visits, drop-in seafarers’ centres and a range of welfare and emergency support services.