Samuel shares what it means to be a Ground Operations Officer in Liberia, doing the unseen tasks behind every flight.
Interview by Rachel Gwole-George
I am Samuel K. Harris, Ground Operations Officer for MAF in Liberia.
As a Ground Operations Officer, we do many things. We receive cargo from the booking stage, prepare it for departure, unload cargo when the aircraft arrives, refuel the aircraft, clean it inside and out, and make sure everything is ready for safe operations.
I feel so happy to be part of MAF. I've learned so much since I joined, and I'm proud to be part of this mission.
Many people only see the aircraft flying, but they don't realise that without the ground crew, the aircraft cannot fly. Before every flight, we have to refuel the aircraft, prepare the cargo, and make sure everything is ready so the plane can safely serve the communities that depend on us.
Without MAF, many people would struggle to travel or receive the services they need. I'm happy to be part of an organisation that serves Liberians.
When I first came to MAF, I knew nothing. I couldn't do many of the things I do today. But MAF believes in training people.
They invested in me, and because of that, I have learned how to handle cargo operations, refuel aircraft, operate different vehicles, and perform many responsibilities that I never imagined I could do.
It was like I was blind to this kind of work. But when I came here, it was as if my eyes were open. My life has changed completely, and I'm grateful for that.
Without MAF, many people would struggle to travel or receive the services they need. I'm happy to be part of an organisation that serves Liberians.
They invested in me, and because of that, I have learned how to handle cargo operations, refuel aircraft, operate different vehicles, and perform many responsibilities that I never imagined I could do.
It was like I was blind to this kind of work. But when I came here, it was as if my eyes were open. My life has changed completely, and I'm grateful for that.
I'll never forget my first flight. Captain Stephen Biggs was the pilot. As the aircraft took off and bent to the right, I held tightly to my seat. He looked at me and asked, 'Are you okay?' I told him, 'Yes, I'm okay,' even though I was nervous. By the end of the flight to Tapeta and back, I was smiling. It was an unforgettable experience.
My faith is also very important to me. I serve in my church's music ministry. I love singing, playing the drums, and worshipping God. One of my favourite Bible verses is John 3:16: 'For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.' That verse reminds me of God's love every day.
I am married and the father of six children. My family is my greatest motivation. Every day I come to work knowing that what I do helps provide for them while also serving my country.
When I look back at where I started and where I am today, I can honestly say MAF didn't just give me a job, it gave me purpose, skills, confidence, and a future. I will always be thankful for the opportunity to serve.