This study explores the intricate relationship between linguistic and cultural investment in English and professional identity (re)construction among Indonesian seafarers. It examines how seafarers' investment in English and professional knowledge, along with their interactions and experiences within the global maritime industry, construct and reconstruct their professional identities. Using Sociocultural Theory and Community of Practice (CoP) Theory as the theoretical framework, the research employs a narrative inquiry approach complemented by photovoice methodology. It captures the personal and professional journeys of four Indonesian seafarers from their early formal learning years to their working experiences aboard multilingual ships. Participants were selected through purposive and convenience sampling based on specific criteria, and primary data was collected through multiple narrative interviews and photovoice sessions.
The analysis reveals four key themes: investment in English, professional identity (re)construction, linguistic capitalization, and symbolic resources. English serves as a vehicle for learning and career advancement during their early years, a facilitator of effective communication in a multicultural environment, and a catalyst for personal growth, enabling them to envision more expansive professional identities. The study meticulously documents the seafarers' dynamic perceptions as they transition from peripheral participants to central members of the maritime professional community. Through their formal education, internships, and work experiences, participants navigate their professional identities across various intercultural settings in the maritime industry.
The findings underscore the importance of early family support, structured maritime academy environments, and continuous professional (re)construction in developing linguistic and cultural capital. The findings highlight the adaptive measures seafarers employ to align their linguistic capital with the demands of a multilingual, multicultural maritime context, providing in-depth insights into language adaptation strategies and the role of English as capital in professional roles and interactions. Furthermore, the research contextualizes these findings within broader theoretical discussions on language capitalization, professional identity, and intercultural communication, offering a nuanced understanding of how language intersects with professional identity and cultural dynamics amid the challenges of linguistic globalization in the maritime sector.
The narrative and photovoice evidence underscore the importance of comprehensive language training that transcends basic communication skills to include cultural and identity awareness. The study recommends enhancing maritime training programs to foster safer, more inclusive, and efficient working environments. This study makes significant contributions to the fields of language studies, professional sociology, and intercultural communication within the maritime industry, offering both empirical insights and theoretical advancements. It underscores the need for educational and policy reforms to improve the working conditions and experiences of seafarers, promoting a more harmonious and productive maritime workplace. |