Wallem Seafarer Series: Irish Dalumpines
Name: Irish Dalumpines
Nationality: Filipino
Role: Able Seaman
In my youth, I did not expect to find myself working in a male-dominated industry. A career at sea was not something I had dreamed of. I always envisioned myself working in an office environment and being close to my family. I have always been driven and confident and after hearing from those who worked as seafarers, I was intrigued to see if this career would suit me.
After several years at sea, I can say that I found my sense of belonging! Life at sea is blessed with numerous adventures but also some challenges. One thing that I can say for sure is that I have not been bored for a minute, which I know is not something a lot of people can say about their jobs. As the saying goes “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Wallem welcomed me as a deck cadet in 2018 and continues to go out of its way to attract and work with female seafarers. Throughout my time with Wallem, I have seen the importance and commitment to crew wellbeing and the highest standard of safety they provide in every aspect of crew life, whether onshore or onboard vessels. These values and actions give me the assurance that Wallem genuinely cares for all its seafarers.
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I have always been ambitious, and Wallem supported me in reaching my professional goals by providing opportunities for career advancement. They motivate and challenge my limits because they believe I am capable of more, encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone and allow myself to grow.
My ongoing greatest personal achievement is to support my family financially whilst showing them how fulfilled I am with my life at sea. While onboard, I miss my family so internet access allows me to speak to my mother frequently to avoid homesickness.
I play games, pamper myself and do cabin chores which I find therapeutic. Recently, I have been trying to explore new things such as going to the gym to stay fit.
As a female, working onboard is an everyday challenge both physically and mentally but I finally understand why people spend their life in this industry. Being a seafarer has changed my life and it has been a great journey to date and I am always grateful for Wallem for giving me the opportunity and I look forward to what the future holds.