Sister Teresa McKeon: A Lifetime of Dedication to Education and Women’s Development in Sierra Leone
An Irish nun who has dedicated over seven decades to education and women’s development in Sierra Leone has received the esteemed Presidential Distinguished Service Award. At 95 years of age, Sister Teresa McKeon is a living testament to selflessness and perseverance.
A Legacy of Service
Sister Teresa McKeon is one of ten recipients of the Presidential Distinguished Service Award. Among her peers are Seamus Coleman, the Republic of Ireland and Everton captain, who performs service for Ireland or their respective communities abroad.
Journey to Sierra Leone
The nun, a member of the St. Joseph of Cluny congregation, left Ireland in 1954 just a few months after graduating with a teaching degree from University College Dublin. She arrived by ocean liner in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, ready to embark on a journey that would span seven decades of transformative change.
Fortitude in the Face of Adversity
Sister Teresa served as a teacher and principal in Freetown for two decades before the Sierra Leone Civil War forced her to flee to Guinea. Her resistance did not waver; instead, she turned her attention to helping refugees, focusing on education and enterprise skills for women and children.
Upon returning to Sierra Leone post-war, she resumed her teaching career, branching into primary, junior, and secondary education. Her commitment grew, leading her to establish adult education courses covering business, financial management, nutrition, catering, and tailoring.
Her tireless efforts helped countless individuals secure employment and gain opportunities in a challenging economic climate.
Awards and Recognition
In 2017, Sister Teresa was honored with the Order of the Rokel from Sierra Leone’s President for her dedicated service in education and women’s development.
The Irish President presented her with the Presidential Distinguished Service Award at Áras an Uachtaráin. Due to her advanced age, Sister Angela Bangura accepted the award on her behalf, acknowledging her work and expressing gratitude for Ireland’s recognition.
Celebration of a Noble Life
Sister Angela Bangura returned to Sierra Leone with the award, and on St. Brigid’s Day, an elaborate ceremony was held by the Irish Ambassador Aidan Fitzpatrick. Surrounded by fellow sisters, friends, and former pupils, Sister Teresa was honored.
A Legacy of Inspiration
When asked about her commitment to Sierra Leone, Sister Angela responded, “She will be 96 in November, so she is unable to travel. She is a selfless person and it is great for her to know Ireland remembers her for the work she has done there.”
She added, “She came to Sierra Leone in her 20s. She came before independence and things have not been easy because of wars, Ebola, and natural calamities. But she has stayed on and worked with people right through.”
Empowering Through Education
In the face of adversity, Sister Teresa’s unwavering spirit and dedication have paved the way for thousands of individuals, particularly women, to gain access to education and opportunities, transforming lives in Sierra Leone.
Continuing the Legacy
Sister Angela Bangura’s words highlight the profound impact of Sister Teresa’s work and serve as a reminder of her guiding principle, “She is staying for the people.”
Conclusion and Call to Action
Sister Teresa McKeon’s story exemplifies the power of dedication and the transformative impact of education in fostering social change and empowerment. Her legacy endures through the many lives she has touched in Sierra Leone.
Sr Teresa’s inspiring journey is the focus of a feature on RTÉ One’s Nationwide program tonight at 7 pm and on RTÉ Player. Watch the show to learn more about her incredible contributions and the impact of her work.
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