April: Conversations That Matter

10.04.2026

April brought more than renewed contracts. Employment agreements were extended for another two years, and with that came something that had never been done quite like this before: Ali and Fabienne each conducted the staff appraisals.

When this was announced, the unease within the team was visible. What will be asked? What is expected? The answer: nearly two hours of real conversation. Space for satisfaction, space for criticism, space for honesty.

One of the central topics was the question of why marinecultures.org repeatedly takes on new projects, even when that means extra workload, uncertainty, and having to learn something new. For many on the team, new is not automatically exciting. It is often met with caution, sometimes with scepticism. That is precisely why it was important to explain openly: collaborations and new projects are not optional for us. They are essential. Financially. And as an NGO that must continuously earn its visibility, credibility, and relevance.

Long-term funding that gives us planning security over several years is invaluable in this regard. So too is the exchange with other local NGOs and mutual visits that benefit the entire team.

The conversations were revealing, for everyone involved. And they left something tangible behind: a clear overview of responsibilities now hangs on the office wall, visible to all and there to support each other in their tasks.

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