Talitha Kum Sri Lanka marked a significant milestone in its mission to combat human trafficking and uphold the dignity of every person through the inauguration of its new office, its official registration as a legal entity, and the successful convening of the National Conference 2026.

The Inaugural ceremony and Opening of the Talitha Kum Lanka office took place on 29 May 2026 in Colombo. The event was honored by the presence of Sr. Abby Avelino, International Coordinator of Talitha Kum; Rt. Rev. Bishop Noel Emmanuel, Director of the Migration Commission of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Sri Lanka; and Rev. Fr. Justin Chawkan, President of the Conference of Major Religious Superiors of Sri Lanka (CMRS).

The gathering brought together 35 Major Religious Superiors, Religious Sisters and Priests, as well as interreligious leaders, special invitees, and members of Talitha Kum Lanka. Representatives from Caritas SEDEC, Save the Children, PASS Asia, and Mrs. Chathuri Pinto, Director of the Department of Christian Religious Affairs (DCRA) under the Ministry of Buddhasasana, also participated in the event, demonstrating the importance of collaboration among government institutions, faith communities, and civil society organizations in addressing human trafficking.

A special note of gratitude is extended to Sr. Jane Wakahiu of the Catholic Sisters Initiative-Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, who shared an inspiring video message affirming Talitha Kum Lanka’s mission and encouraging all those engaged in the protection of vulnerable persons and the promotion of human dignity.

Following the inaugural event, the National Conference was held on 30–31 May 2026 under the theme “From Awareness to Action: Building Networks for a Trafficking-Free Society.” The two-day gathering brought together 45 Religious Sisters and Youth Ambassadors from across the country for learning, reflection, networking, and strategic planning.

The keynote address by Sr. Abby Avelino highlighted the current realities and emerging challenges of human trafficking at the global, regional, and local levels. Participants also engaged in sessions addressing root causes and vulnerabilities, prevention and protection strategies, legal frameworks, safe migration, and the role of faith communities in safeguarding human dignity.

The sessions were facilitated by distinguished resource persons with expertise in human trafficking, migration, human rights, gender and protection, and community development. Through presentations and discussions, participants gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and explored practical approaches to prevention, protection, advocacy, and networking and collaboration.

A significant component of the conference focused on strategic planning and actions.  Participants developed action plans centered on the three pillars of Prevention, Protection, and Rehabilitation. Sisters from different congregations worked collaboratively to create concrete strategies suited to their local contexts. The discussions reflected a deep commitment to protecting vulnerable persons, advocating for those on the margins, and fostering communities where the dignity of every individual is respected and safeguarded. The conference concluded with a renewed sense of purpose with a clear roadmap for the work ahead of them, the participants left feeling empowered and committed to take action in their communities. 

Another key highlight of the conference was the announcement of Sr. Rupika Perera as the new National Coordinator of Talitha Kum Sri Lanka. This leadership transition marks a renewed commitment to strengthening the network’s mission and collaborative efforts to combat human trafficking across the country.

With gratitude to God and appreciation for all partners, facilitators, and participants, Talitha Kum Sri Lanka successfully concluded this landmark event. The gathering reaffirmed the shared commitment to protect life, restore dignity, and work together towards building a trafficking-free society.

Sr. M. Dhayalini, AC
Talitha Kum Asia Coordinator