Leading eLearning platform OneLearn Global, member of OneCare Group, has launched a specialist maritime training course designed to help shipping companies improve communication, leadership and collaboration with Filipino seafarers, one of the most important workforces in global shipping.
Filipino seafarers play a vital role in keeping global trade moving, serving across vessel types, ranks and regions. As crews become increasingly multinational, OneLearn Global (OLG), believes that better cultural understanding is no longer optional, but essential to building trust, improving wellbeing and supporting safer onboard operations.
OLG, has partnered with certified maritime trainer and corporate learning specialist Kate Bollanou to deliver ‘Effective Collaboration with Filipinos’, a self-paced online course. The course has been developed for Masters, senior officers, superintendents, crewing managers, HR professionals and shore-based teams who work directly with Filipino seafarers or manage multicultural maritime teams.
Delivered through concise micro-learning videos, the programme provides practical insight into Filipino communication styles, workplace values, leadership expectations and cultural norms. It is designed to help maritime professionals recognise cultural differences before they become barriers, adapt their leadership approach, and build stronger working relationships on board and ashore.
Kate Bollanou, Course Director and certified consultant and trainer specialising in corporate learning for the maritime industry, said: “Filipino seafarers make an enormous contribution to global shipping, but effective collaboration depends on more than technical competence. It requires understanding, respect and the ability to communicate across cultures. Too often, cultural awareness is assumed rather than taught. This course gives maritime professionals practical knowledge they can use immediately to strengthen trust, reduce misunderstandings and create more inclusive and productive working environments.”
As a Greek-Filipino with extensive experience delivering corporate training programmes for the maritime sector, Ms Bollanou brings both professional expertise and first-hand cultural understanding to the course. Her approach is focused on practical application, helping shipping companies translate cultural intelligence into stronger teamwork, better engagement and improved operational performance.
CEO of OneLearn Global, Marinos Kokkinis said: “The maritime industry has become increasingly diverse, making effective cross-cultural collaboration a core leadership skill rather than simply a desirable attribute. Our partnership with Kate reflects our commitment to delivering practical, high-quality training that helps shipping companies get the very best from their people. Effective Collaboration with Filipinos provides valuable insights that can improve communication, strengthen relationships and ultimately contribute to safer, more engaged and higher-performing teams."
The course is available now through the OneLearn Global eShop and forms part of the company's growing portfolio of specialist maritime training programmes covering professional development, leadership, wellbeing, cybersecurity and operational.
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