Thailand has recognized the outstanding contributions of a Catholic nun whose compassionate and tireless efforts have helped protect vulnerable women and children from human trafficking in the country’s northern regions.

Sister Marie-Agnes Suwanna Buasap received the Outstanding Person Award for the Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. The award was presented during a ceremony in Bangkok on June 5, which marks National Anti-Human Trafficking Day.

“We are called to be Pilgrims of Hope – bringing hope to those living on the margins, especially young women at risk of exploitation,” Sister Marie-Agnes said in her remarks at the ceremony.

“To combat trafficking effectively, we must be present in the communities we serve. Building trust is essential,” she added. “This work is never done alone. It is the result of shared commitment, faith, and compassion.”

The Ministry commended her for her “courageous, creative, and sustained” efforts to prevent trafficking, particularly in areas identified as high-risk for women and children.

According to Vatican News, Sister Marie-Agnes’ approach centers on education, empowerment, and grassroots leadership. Her key initiatives include:

• Training over 3,180 teachers across 35 schools in Thailand to deliver anti-trafficking education, reaching more than 60,000 students.
• Supporting youth-led awareness campaigns in Thailand’s northern border provinces.
• Establishing Talitha Kum Kids networks in schools to encourage long-term advocacy.
• Launching livelihood programs for women in three northern villages, including the development of chili-based products to improve household income.
• Deploying 40 Talitha Kum volunteers to lead workshops for over 800 women, focusing on awareness, skill-building, and strengthening community resilience.

The Talitha Kum movement is an international network of Catholic sisters founded in 2009 and active in more than 90 countries. It is dedicated to ending human trafficking through community engagement and advocacy. The name Talitha Kum comes from an Aramaic phrase in the Gospel of Mark, meaning “Maiden, I say to you, arise.”

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https://www.vaticannews.va