“I have been sailing for 37 years and more than 20 of which as a captain. In my early days, there were Dutch officers and Spanish and Cape Verdean sailors on board. I now sail with Russians, Ukrainians and Filipinos. Sometimes I am even the only Dutch person on board. Russian and Ukrainian colleagues always bring some tasty treats when they come on board. Then there are bowls of sweets and snacks everywhere. Filipino colleagues have great respect for the elderly. And they love karaoke, those guys are always singing. Another typical Filipino characteristic is that it is rude to say no. So when I ask if they understand my instruction, they always say yes. Even if they do not understand. That is why I always ask them to explain to me what I said. Then I can be sure that my instructions have been clearly understood. Racism Religion and politics are not discussed on board. I don't want that, it just causes trouble. You can see that now, for example, between Russian and Ukrainian colleagues; the war can increase tension on board. I also sometimes have to deal with racism, especially against Filipino colleagues. Last year, a Filipino came on board. A Russian officer said: ‘He is sure to be infected with COVID-19, we have to watch out for that.’ I immediately made it clear that I didn't appreciate that and that he could pack his bags if he didn't comply. That made him swallow his words. Group selfie I don't care where my colleagues come from. I always say: we are all citizens of the world. That is what I like about this work, the fact that you come into contact with other cultures. Only the language is sometimes an obstacle. In Dutch, you can get by on a single word. If both of you are not speaking your mother tongue, it is sometimes difficult. And with a small vocabulary, it often comes across so direct. Chatting is also more difficult. You cannot translate a joke. But I think: whoever you work with, you have to create a pleasant atmosphere yourself. You are responsible for ensuring that people are having a good time together. When I come on board, I always offer a welcome drink on the bridge. We have a soft drink together, I introduce myself and we take a group selfie. Even though I am the captain, I sometimes make myself vulnerable. For example, by saying it when I don't know something. Or by helping a colleague. This sometimes leads to surprise, especially among Russians and Ukrainians. Filipinos are also very sensitive to hierarchy. But if I make myself vulnerable, it leads to a more pleasant cooperation, you get to connect with others.” ←