In this episode, Esther and Shirley sit down with Rosa Shi, a multilingual storyteller and cultural connector whose unconventional journey has taken her from corporate Beijing to the decks of a Japanese NGO's global voyage.
Born in Quanzhou, Fujian, Rosa studied Spanish at Sun Yat-sen University, where a transformative exchange year in Mexico City expanded her worldview. After completing her Master’s in Arts & Cultural Management from King’s College London during the pandemic, she began her career as a Brand Specialist in tech. But craving deeper purpose, Rosa stepped away from the corporate world to join Peace Boat, a Japan-based NGO that promotes peace, sustainability, and human rights through educational global voyages.
As a volunteer interpreter, Rosa sailed across five continents—Africa, Asia, Europe, North and South America—visiting 15 countries and crossing the equator four times. Her role as a language bridge helped Mandarin-speaking passengers connect with global communities and cultures, from city ports to remote villages.
In our conversation, Rosa shares the inspiration behind her leap of faith, the cultural lessons learned onboard, and the emotional highs and lows of traveling with a diverse international crew. She reflects on identity, growth, and mental resilience—and how leaving behind convention helped her discover a new sense of self.
We also talk about her upcoming move to Shenzhen, and how her global journey has reshaped her career aspirations and approach to life.
If you're curious about cross-cultural exchange, redefining success, and the power of human connection on the open sea—tune in to hear Rosa’s story.
#PeaceBoat #GlobalCitizenship #CulturalExchange #MentalHealth #SustainableTravel #CareerPivot #MoveWithPower
