In this insightful conversation, Sr. Jansi Joy of the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo shares the journey that shaped her commitment to faith, justice, and leadership. From her early years in Tamil Nadu to her mission in Africa and her work against human trafficking, Sr. Jansi embodies a deep sense of purpose and unwavering dedication. Her passion for literature, advocacy for the marginalized, and leadership in global networks like Talitha Kum and UNODC reflect her tireless pursuit of dignity for the most vulnerable. This interview offers a glimpse into her inspiring life and the values that continue to guide her path.
Interviewed by Ms Janina Gomes
Tell us something about your earlier years, your family and surroundings.
I grew up in Tamil Nadu, India, in a loving family with five siblings. My eldest brother, Jeyaseelan, is a priest and musician, and my other siblings are well-settled. My family instilled in me values of justice, courage, loyalty, compassion for the poor, and respect for nature. Although I lost my mother 30 years ago, my 90-year-old father remains active, helping my brother in business.
My vibrant neighbourhood shaped my faith, discipline, and sense of responsibility. I studied at St. Aloysius Middle School, Karangadu, in Kanyakumari District and completed high and higher secondary school in Vellore District after we relocated. My school days remain dear to me, and I still cherish friendships with my classmates.
How did you experience your call to become a religious and to the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo?
My call to consecrated life came not through a dramatic event, but through a quiet whisper nurtured by parish services, the Holy Childhood movement, the Legion of Mary, and acts of charity. The seed of my vocation was planted when my brother entered the seminary, supported by the values instilled in me by my mother and family.
The charism of the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo—marked by simplicity, humility, and warmth—resonated deeply with me, leading me to embrace God’s Call. This gave my life meaning and purpose. Formation in the congregation helped me face challenges with hope, and Isaiah 61:1, “The Lord has anointed me to bring good tidings to the afflicted,” became my guiding light. My studies in social work enabled me to live this charism more deeply.
Despite challenges, my journey is anchored in God’s presence. Inspired by Psalm 27:4, “One thing I ask of the Lord: to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,” I strive to live my vocation with faith, joy, and trust in His promise: “The Lord goes before me and with me” (Deuteronomy 31:8).
With a B.A. and M.A. in English from the University of Madras and Madurai Kamraj University, how has your passion for literature influenced your life and work?
Choosing English Literature was more than an academic decision; it was a profound step in my spiritual journey and personal growth. Literature opened a world of ideas that deepened my understanding of life, faith, and human nature. Exploring characters and their moral dilemmas reinforced my values of justice, courage, loyalty, and compassion while challenging me to cultivate humility, patience, and empathy.
The beauty and power of language in literature inspired and healed, bridging my inner world with the realities around me. Ultimately, literature shaped me into a more reflective and compassionate person, enriching my spiritual life and guiding me to live with purpose, integrity, and love.
Having completed courses ‘Leadership for Mission,’ ‘Organizational Leadership,’ and ‘Resource Mobilization and Proposal Writing,’ how have these trainings supported your mission in Africa?
The diverse skills and training I have acquired have been invaluable in shaping my mission and ministry. Advanced leadership and organizational development programs equipped me to address complex social issues, empower communities, and foster collaboration for lasting impact.
As a Regional Superior in Africa and National Coordinator of Talitha Kum in Tanzania, a global network against human trafficking, these skills were essential for managing projects, mobilizing resources, and aligning goals with the needs of the vulnerable. My mission demanded strategic thinking, adaptability, and a heart for service, enabling me to build networks, foster teamwork, and lead initiatives with clarity and vision. These experiences have deepened my commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives I serve.
You mentioned leadership training through Talitha Kum in collaboration with the Pontifical Antonianum University and Tangaza University College. Can you explain the significance of Talitha Kum and the seriousness of human trafficking?
Talitha Kum is the International Network of Consecrated Life Against Trafficking in Persons. The name comes from the biblical phrase “Talitha Kum. Young girl, I say to you, arise!” (Mk. 5:41), symbolizing transformation through compassion and mercy. These words inspire networks to support victims and survivors of human trafficking, restoring their dignity and empowering them to reclaim their lives.
Established in 2009, Talitha Kum operates through 60 local networks (in India it is known as AMRAT – Asian Movement of Religious Against Trafficking In Persons) in nearly 90 countries, actively supporting victims, survivors, and at-risk individuals aiming to end human trafficking through prevention, protection, rehabilitation, reintegration, advocacy, and addressing systemic causes. While each network retains its unique identity, the International Coordination at UISG provides capacity development, training, and resource sharing to strengthen their impact.
Human Trafficking, often referred to as “Trafficking in Persons” (TIP), is the third-largest profit-making criminal enterprise globally, a modern form of slavery. It involves exploitation through forced labour, commercial sex, forced marriage, organ trafficking, child soldiering, and other violations of human dignity. There are two main types: internal/domestic trafficking and cross-border/international trafficking.
A global issue that transcends borders and laws, human trafficking affects almost every country (UNODC 2014). In 2021, 49.6 million people were living in modern slavery (ILO 2021), and the numbers are rising. This fastest-growing crime against humanity thrives on the vulnerability and despair of people, despite increased global efforts to combat it.
Invited by UNODC for the “Stakeholder Engagement for the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime” (SE4U), what was your experience, and what impact did it have?
Being invited by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for the SE4U was a valuable recognition of my work against human trafficking. The program focused on dialogue, policy influence, and collaboration to address organized crime and align initiatives with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Despite the enriching experience, challenges arose due to limited networks and the congregation’s readiness for large-scale advocacy. A shift in responsibilities required me to step away before achieving significant progress. Nonetheless, the experience deepened my understanding of systemic issues and continues to inspire my commitment to combating trafficking.
As the National Coordinator of Talitha Kum in Tanzania, you have made a significant impact on society and government. Can you share your experiences and contributions in this vital frontline ministry?
The Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo’s leadership in Tanzania’s anti-human trafficking ministry led to my role as National Coordinator for Talitha Kum Tanzania, a mission I cherish deeply.
Our efforts focused on prevention, including translating materials into Swahili, building capacity for religious leaders, law enforcement, and youth, and creating local resources. Collaboration with various congregations, diocesan leaders, government officials, and NGOs strengthened the anti-trafficking network.
Awareness campaigns in schools, parishes, and public gatherings, along with media initiatives, raised the profile of the cause. Advocacy improved policies, and while survivor support remains a priority, this ministry has deepened my understanding of trafficking and the importance of collaboration.
You have actively engaged in initiatives organized by the International Union of Superiors General (UISG), Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), focusing on Faith, Environment, and Climate Change. Can you share more about your involvement in these activities?
Environmental stewardship has always been central to the mission of the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo, inspired by the call of our 1994 General Chapter to embrace sustainable lifestyles and care for creation.
We promoted sustainability through initiatives like solar power, rainwater harvesting, and biodiversity conservation, while encouraging eco-friendly living. In Africa, our sisters established eco-clubs, led tree-planting drives, and worked on policy advocacy.
The Faith, Environment, and Climate Change course, organized in collaboration by UISG, JPIC, and UNEP, deepened my commitment to the Laudato Si’ Goals, addressing both the cries of the Earth and the poor. I believe that small, consistent actions like energy conservation, waste reduction, and raising awareness can bring meaningful change and safeguard our common home for future generations.
As a General Councilor for the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo and having held various leadership roles, how have these positions contributed to your personal and professional development?
Serving as a General Councillor and in other leadership roles has been transformative for my personal growth. These responsibilities have sharpened my leadership, decision-making, and organizational skills, especially while addressing human trafficking and environmental challenges in Africa. They’ve also deepened my self-awareness, resilience, and emotional intelligence, reinforcing my commitment to justice, integrity, and compassion for the marginalized.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
The global challenges we face, from climate change to human trafficking, require urgent, united action. The Catholic Church has immense potential to drive change, and together—Church leaders, consecrated persons, and laity—we can create a just, compassionate, and sustainable future.
As an Ethiopian proverb says, “When spider webs unite, they can tie down a lion,” highlighting the power of collaboration. Pope Francis reminded us during the Synod on Synodality (November 17, 2021), “The Gospel calls us to walk together.” We need to prepare ourselves with the skills for effective collaboration and, with unity, transform the world and be sowers of hope.
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