If you’ve attended an Outward Bound sailing course in the past 30 years, you’ve probably crossed paths with Berman.
Berman’s 30 years of service to OBHK as the Skipper of the Spirit of Outward Bound Hong Kong and, before that, the Bosun for the Ji Fung, have made him a pillar of our work and our community.
Berman is full of dedication and passion for his work. Whether it was picking his way across Hong Kong after Typhoon Mangkhut in 2018 to check on his vessel, or spending his spare time with instructors to coach them on improving their sailing technique, Berman was always willing to go the extra mile to do his job well.
During his time at OBHK, Berman held his coworkers to high standards, making sure that every course was the best it could be. He was always willing to spend his time to help others improve their skills. He was helpful to instructors and understood their work well, always having extra ideas in his back pocket for a windless day, he contributed to the quality of Outward Bound courses not just with his sailing know-how, but also his skilled facilitation.
Berman is a quiet leader who gained our respect because of his know-how, his leadership, and his setting an example.
“Working with Berman indirectly for 4 years, directly for 5, together we have been through countless adventures, sweated profusely, rode out storms and celebrated an abundance of joyful moments. Berman can only be summarised as an incredibly modest yet humble individual who puts others before himself, thoroughly embracing the Outward Bound philosophy whilst maintaining, encouraging and enforcing exceptionally high professional and safety standards most notably through leading by example. Without a doubt the most hardworking seaman I have ever met, Berman is selfless yet 100% dedicated to the cause which Outward Bound embraces and the development of those participants (crew) which have had the honour to be guided under his command.”
- Donovan Chow, Ship Operations Manager (2013-2018)
