“Rise Up!” This is the heartbeat of Talitha Kum, and today, with profound humility and deep gratitude to God, I echo that call as I accept the responsibility of Regional Representative for Talitha Kum Asia. I step into this role following the remarkable footsteps of Sr. Paula Kwandao Phonprasertruksa SPC, whose dedicated leadership has been a beacon of light for our network. My own journey is rooted in the Congregation of the Apostolic Carmel, where our primary ministry is education—a mission grounded in the belief that every child is a sacred trust. It was from this foundation that I first heard a "call within a call" in 2019, as the Talitha Kum network began to take shape in my home, Sri Lanka. With great passion, I joined Sisters from ten major congregations who share this charism; together, we rose to meet the complex realities of our nation, united by an unshakable commitment to human dignity.

We live in a world fractured by poverty, climate change, and forced migration—shadows that allow the tragedy of human trafficking to thrive. Yet, where the world sees only vulnerability, Talitha Kum sees resilience. Across 16 nations in Asia, we are more than a network; we are a communion of courageous Religious Sisters standing on the frontlines, committed lay collaborators weaving a web of protection, and passionate Youth Ambassadors who are the heartbeat of this mission. As a Regional Representative, I am not here merely to lead, but to listen and to accompany. My commitment is to foster a synodal spirit where every grassroots voice is heard and every survivor’s journey is honored. Together, we will continue to prevent exploitation through education, protect the vulnerable through tireless advocacy, and accompany survivors with the tenderness of the Gospel.

I wish to express my deepest gratitude to the Talitha Kum International Coordinating Committee led by Sr. Abby Avelino, MM, to the UISG, and to my own Congregation for their trust and for granting me this sacred responsibility. This mission calls us to move from the Head to the Heart—transforming our awareness into action. Let us stand as a compassionate presence and prophetic challenge, protecting the dignity of God's children until the chains of exploitation are broken. In God’s strength, let us begin this journey. 

Sr. Mary Dhayalini A.C