I maintained a connection to UN-related matters by commemorating significant days such as Nelson Mandela Day and World Friendship Day during my tenure as Headmistress, actively integrating these themes into the school’s display boards.
My years in academic administration continued until the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2021. Subsequently, my interest in ecology burgeoned. Despite years of adhering to a structured schedule, I surprised myself by embracing a completely different ministry in 2022 — I became the Mary Ward International Contact person for South Asia.
Collaborating closely with Loreto Rainbow Homes and our Social Centres aimed at combating trafficking and empowering women through self-help groups and basic education for migrant children became my focal point. The urgency of the climate crisis in my country fueled my passion for finding simple yet impactful solutions through the Laudato Si Movement.
A significant highlight was organizing a day-long ecological conversion program for nearly 40 girls from Loreto Rainbow Homes aged between 15 to 18 — an incredibly rewarding experience. And still actively engaged in the ‘Care of the Earth’ Cluster within the Province of South Asia, I find profound fulfillment in exchanging information and staying informed about ecological matters.
In conclusion, my journey through school ministry kept me connected to our NGO office and UN-related affairs. The annual Model United Nations (MUN UN) workshop for Loreto Schools further strengthened this connection.
I commend both Janet Palafox ibvm and Cynthia Mathew cj, the IBVM/CJ UNNGO representatives, for their proactive engagement with day-to-day events at the UN headquarters in New York. Their dedication to raising awareness regarding human rights and the welfare of the natural world is commendable. Let us continue to pay forward our learnings and experiences, following the noble path paved by Mary Ward women and those who have served at the United Nations.
Author: Marilla D’Souza ibvm (previous IBVM NGO Representative to the UN)
Photos: Marilla D’Souza ibvm and Priyanka Topno ibvm with students from Loreto Rainbow Home.
