Name: Viktor

Position on Board: 3rd Engineer

Nationality: Ukraine

The story so far: This is my first trip with Greenpeace. Before this I worked for four months in the shipyard rebuilding the Esperanza. We lived in the shipyard on the MV Sirius, then on the MV Greenpeace.

How did I start working Greenpeace? I sailed for nine months with David as my chief engineer on a commercial ship. David had worked for Greenpeace for years, and he told me about the organization and some of the protests he had been part of.

I was still on the same ship when it came into the port where work had just started on the Esperanza. He invited me over to see the Esperanza, and asked me if I liked the ship. Yes, I liked the ship, and I think the world needs an organization like Greenpeace - so when they offered me a job I took it. It was a good choice. I am proud of our work.

Favourite forest experience: I have plenty of experience, but on the other side.

I am a seaman. This is my job. Ships are where I live. Before Greenpeace, I worked for many years on commercial ships - some of which had logs 50 meters long and a meter and a half in diameter. So, I have seen both sides now, and I prefer this side.

Favourite thing about the Esperanza: It is hard to explain. I like her like she was my child. Some of my soul is here - from all the hard work.

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