Common Seas

Why is Common Seas a good place to escape in 2021?

Maybe it’s because our Director is a woman who used to be, a captain, or maybe it’s because our funders are people who are deeply connected with the sea for six generations.

Maybe Common Seas is such a brilliant place to work for, because although none of us have ever been in the same place, as we are based in the UK, the Maldives, Indonesia, Athens and on the small Greek island of Paros, we all share a deeper connection with the sea that brings us all together.

Maybe it’s because in strange times like the ones we live in, where everyone is stuck at home, we are united in working for cleaner seas. Many of us live by the sea and witness the effects of human life on this amazing ecosystem on a daily basis. We see it when we go down to the beach with our children for a walk, and instead of collecting seashells we end up collecting waste – so much plastic waste. It seems that the sea is constantly emptying her bowels, getting rid of what we have forcefully put in her.

When I joined Common Seas in March 2019, you could count the number of employees on the fingers of one palm, and in such a short period of time a number of really talented, passionate, and dedicated people have joined this small troupe of wonderful individuals, who are in different paths of their lives, in different countries and continents, and yet manage to meet through Zoom or in real life when allowed, and to work together, as a team, as a family, as a hand that swims in the sea, pushing the water and moving forward.

Maybe Common Seas is such an excellent place to work for, because it recognises people for their abilities and passions, even above and beyond studies. And although it really supports those who are seeking the highest levels of education - we are so lucky to have team members who have dedicated much time of their lives to receive a PhD, Common Seas is the type of organisation that is openminded and recognises true passion and life’s experiences in a way that a lot of other organisations do not.

We put to good use our minds, bodies and hearts and above all we are dedicated. Common Seas recognises passion and allows it, to flourish, it gives us the license to think outside the box, creates space for discussion and knowledge, it provides support and life changing opportunities. It is the kind of place that laughter has room, and yet tears of personal sadness can be shed safely, ample time for sickness to be overcome, and health to be regained, happiness to be shared.

Maybe Common Seas is such a rare place to be part of, because it supports us through our highs and lows in our actual real, day to day life, outside of work. When I was lying in bed, in an Athens hospital last year in desperate need of blood, I received heart-warming messages from the founders of Common Seas that I have yet to meet, but their love and warmth came through those text messages, bringing tears to my eyes, and the feeling that I was part of a bigger family.

My children often complain that since I started this job I work too much, and to be honest it never feels enough because there will never be enough time to do the work, we set out to do. But on the other hand, I know that with the rare chance that I was given to work from this little island for such a cause, for such an organisation, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. And I know that my children are very proud, even if they see their mum less than they used to.

And then of course is the work we do, but you can read about that on our website.


Thank you for your time,

Zana

I love working for an organisation with such a clear and important mission. Add a creative and friendly team to the mix and you're onto a winner.