As a volunteer sterile processing technician, Frank plays a critical behind-the-scenes role by ensuring that surgical instruments are clean, safe, and ready for use. “My biggest driving force is to make an impact on society, help those in need, and serve humanity,” he shared.

With a heart for advocacy and hands committed to helping, Frank brings skill and compassion to Mercy Ships’ mission of bringing hope and healing to those who need it most.

The Story Behind the Heart

“Growing up was tough for me because I lost my father at a very young age,” Frank explained. He was barely 4 months old at the time, leaving him to be raised by his mother.

He proudly admits that his mother did a great job, but, given the war in Sierra Leone during part of his childhood, life was tough. “My mum was able to take us from place to place throughout the war, and we did not lose anybody,” he reflected.

During this challenging time, young Frank saw things a child shouldn’t see. “It was because of all those bad things that happened that touched my heart to become a human rights professional,” he said. Frank became one of the youngest activists, championing advocacy campaigns and raising awareness even after the war ended.

“I’ve been able to transfer many of those same skills to my work as a medical professional,” he said, adding that healthcare falls under the economic, social, and cultural rights of persons. For Frank, serving with Mercy Ships is on the same track, just in a different vehicle.

How Frank Became Involved with Mercy Ships

Frank first heard about Mercy Ships during his secondary school days, but his chance to serve on board came in 2011 when his church’s pastor announced that Mercy Ships was coming to Sierra Leone.

“My pastor asked if I was willing to volunteer, and I accepted,” Frank disclosed. He was subsequently selected to work in the sterile processing department as day crew — national crew members who work alongside volunteers, bridging language and cultural barriers. “My passion is to always work for the cause of humanity,” Frank explained, “and I was convinced that joining Mercy Ships was a way to do just that.”

At first, Frank thought it would be a difficult job given his lack of experience in sterile processing, but he soon realised that “all the crewmembers I met there were willing to teach me, and I was flexible to learn.” He learned quickly and performed so outstandingly that, later that year, he became a volunteer crewmember.

According to Frank, the hands-on experience he gained on board, combined with seeing how sterile processing directly impacts every patient, made him decide to become a full-time technician. Over the years, after acquiring relevant international qualifications and diplomas to become a Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL) in Sterile Processing.

Finding Purpose Through Service

Frank works meticulously every day to help prevent post-surgical infections, which could lead to prolonged hospital stays or even death.

“My favourite part of being a sterile processing technician is seeing the outcome. When someone comes to the ship with a problem and then leaves with a smile, that touches me the most.” Frank is keenly aware of how vital his work is to the Mercy Ships mission. Frank explained that if surgical instruments aren’t properly sterilized, patients can end up with more complications than they came in with. He takes his work very seriously, because it ensures that the healing operations that Mercy Ships’ volunteer surgeons perform have a lasting effect when the patient returns home.

“Sterile processing is called the heart of the hospital,” he said. “It is the backbone of quality surgery.”

In addition to his primary clinical duties, Frank also finds fulfilment in training others. From working with new crew to sharing his expertise with local healthcare professionals, every training moment is another opportunity to empower others and strengthen healthcare systems.

“The highlight of my time on Mercy Ships is that I have trained many young people to become sterile processing technicians,” he beamed. “And some of them have even stepped into leadership roles. I feel very satisfied when I see people I’ve trained still practicing.”

The Impact of Mercy Ships

Frank has served as a technician on the Africa Mercy® and on the Global Mercy™.

“Serving with Mercy Ships has impacted me professionally in so many ways,” Frank reflected. “Because of the practical training I received, I was inspired to get my international qualifications and acquire all the necessary certifications to be a professional in the field of sterile processing.” Gaining experience with Mercy Ships goes beyond just professional skills. Frank continues to learn from the rich blend of cultures represented on board, and has felt the positive impact on his natural leadership qualities through service.

“I feel very fulfilled to be a part of this organisation, and I want to continue serving humanity through Mercy Ships,” he said with conviction. “To anyone considering serving with Mercy Ships, I’ll say: go ahead and apply! No matter your role, you have an impact on patient outcomes.” Hope needs more hands on deck.