Ghanaian Seaman Lexus Shares His Journey from Labadi Beach to the High Seaman
Ghanaian seaman Lexus, currently based in the United States, appeared on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show with DJ Nyaami, where he shared his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Ghana to working aboard international gas vessels.
Lexus works on gas transport vessels based in Texas, which supply gas to several countries worldwide. Over the years, his work has taken him to more than 20 countries, allowing him to experience different cultures and maritime systems.
Reflecting on his early days in Ghana, Lexus revealed that he once worked under the Youth and Employment Program, but after a change of government, he and others were laid off. With no steady family income, he began seeking opportunities on his own. He applied to the Labadi Beach Hotel and was employed as a security officer from 2019 to 2020. Unfortunately, the onset of COVID-19 led to another layoff.
Determined not to give up, Lexus organized a group of young men to start a private security team. They secured contracts with Polo Beach Club and other events, including Afrochella. Through these jobs, Lexus managed to save some money.
One day, a friend who worked with the Ghana Prisons Service told him about a connection for seafaring jobs abroad. Lexus enrolled in a marine mechanics program at the Regional Maritime University in Nungua. Although he initially failed his exams by two points, he persevered, retook the test, and passed. After completing his passport and training, he received a call from the seaman’s office that they were applying for visas for successful candidates. His first visa was a Schengen visa, and later he obtained a U.S. visa after a successful interview.
Lexus’s first flight from Ghana was to Columbus, USA, where his vessel loaded gas before traveling across Europe. The seafarers typically work for nine months at sea and then return home for a 90-day break. He recalls his first experience on the vessel:
“I felt seasick and thought the ship was going to sink. I wanted to go back home. But later, I met some Ghanaian seamen who encouraged me, and I’ve never looked back.
As a marine engineer assistant, Lexus helps the chief engineers with maintenance and overhauling tasks on the vessels. He notes that their salaries are highly competitive:
“Even trainees earn more than doctors in Ghana. We are paid by the hour — I make about $30 per hour.”
When asked about his favorite destination, Lexus mentioned the Philippines for its affordability and hospitality.
“With just $200, I bought two suitcases full of items to send to Ghana. I didn’t enjoy Europe much — the people aren’t as friendly.”
Despite his professional success, Lexus’s personal life has had its share of challenges. He recounted a past relationship with a woman who later deceived him about a pregnancy.
“I invested so much in her, even gave her my salary card, but she lied about a miscarriage. Eventually, she chose a peacekeeping mission over the relationship. It taught me a lesson — marriage isn’t for every seaman.”
Now focused on his future, Lexus is investing in real estate and personal development.
“I thank God for everything. I’ve built a house, and I’m focused on my career. The sea has taught me discipline, patience, and the value of hard work.”
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