Mother Teresa ((1910 – 1997))

A Life of Service and Empowerment

Mother Teresa, born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu in 1910 in Skopje, was a remarkable symbol of resilience, compassion, and selfless service. Renowned for her unwavering commitment to the poor and destitute, she dedicated her life to serving the "poorest of the poor," a mission that transcended borders and cultures. At the age of 18, she left her home to join the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland and later moved to India, where she would spend most of her life. In 1950, she founded the Missionaries of Charity, an order that aimed to serve the most marginalized communities. Through her tireless efforts, Mother Teresa set a powerful example of "naari shakti" (women's power) by embodying strength, compassion, and leadership. She worked relentlessly to care for those suffering from leprosy, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and homelessness, opening hospices, orphanages, and clinics across India and around the world.

Her personal sacrifices and deep faith allowed her to build a vast network of volunteers and supporters, all of whom were inspired by her selfless work. As the leader of the Missionaries of Charity, Mother Teresa demonstrated profound determination and commitment to improving the lives of the most vulnerable, often in the face of hardship and adversity. Her example showed that women possess the unique strength to bring about transformative change, using love and compassion as tools for empowerment. She overcame countless obstacles to create a movement that helped millions of people. By focusing on the dignity and value of each human being, especially those who had been cast aside by society, she highlighted the essential role of women in bringing about social change. Her life's work continues to inspire and empower women globally, showing that strength comes not only from authority but from nurturing and caring for those in need.