Presentation of the MELF Statement by the Fellows of Cohort Five

It has become a tradition in the Mercy Emerging Leaders Fellowship MELF) Programme for the Fellows to deliver a formal statement as part of their graduation.

Their graduation ceremony is the culmination of their year-long leadership programme which has seen them take part in three separate immersion experiences in Cambodia, the UN and in Dublin. They have also researched and completed Justice Projects on a range of themes relevant to our world today.

The Fellows of MELF Cohort Five are:

Angela Howard-McParland and Tatiana Díaz (USA); Sr. Aura Matalines rsm and Floravel Ambas (Philippines); Josie Ruawhare and Kilisitina (Tina) Vaeatangitau rsm (New Zealand); Sr. Mary Kanyi rsm (Kenya); Pamela McLoughlin (Ireland); and Saska Sertimer (Guyana).

This is their MELF Statement which was presented at their graduation ceremony on 3 September 2026:

"As one community, one spirit, one Mercy, inspired by the legacy of Catherine McAuley, we commit to lead with humility and compassion, rooted in prayer and nurturing emerging leaders.

"We commit to uphold the sacred worth and dignity of every person and to turn compassion into courageous action that advances love, justice and hope for the future.

"We commit to be leaders who always remember to serve others with smile and to always be merciful to them just as our Father is merciful."

Signed: Angela, Pamela, Mary, Aura, Floravel, Josie, Tina, Tatiana and Saska.

ENDS