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A hospital ship needs firefighters too

When Lena Wilderäng saw that Mercy Ships was looking for firefighters, the Swedish part-time firefighter applied immediately. One assignment aboard the Global Mercy™ soon led to another aboard the Africa Mercy®.

Sector Technical
Location Göteborg, Suède
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Finding her skills on the list

Lena had been looking for an opportunity to use her professional experience internationally. Then she discovered that Mercy Ships needed firefighters.

She didn't need to change profession to contribute. The skills she already had were exactly what a hospital ship needed.

When I saw there were openings for firefighters on Mercy Ships, I applied immediately.
Lena Wilderäng · Firefighter · Sweden
  • Fire safety doesn't stop because a ship is also a hospital. Lena brought her experience as a Swedish firefighter aboard to help protect the patients, volunteers and crew who call the ship home.

Fire safety doesn't stop because a ship is also a hospital. Lena brought her experience as a Swedish firefighter aboard to help protect the patients, volunteers and crew who call the ship home.

One assignment became something more

Lena first served aboard the Global Mercy™ in 2025. Just months later, she returned aboard the Africa Mercy®, taking on broader responsibilities across fire safety, training, navigation and deck operations.

What began as using her firefighting skills became an opportunity to contribute in ways she hadn't expected.

2 hospital ships One profession. More ways to make a difference.
2 hospital ships One profession. More ways to make a difference.

Could your professional skills be needed aboard?

You might be surprised by the professions it takes to run a hospital ship.

Firefighters are just one example. Maritime, technical, hospitality, administrative and medical professionals all bring different expertise to keep the hospital and ship operating.

Lena saw her profession on the list and applied. After her first assignment, she already knew she wanted to come back.

Volunteer your skills

Meet the Crew Behind the Ship