Sister Abby Avelino, MM
International Coordinator, Talitha Kum | Maryknoll Sister
Sister Abby Avelino, MM, is the International Coordinator of Talitha Kum, the global Catholic Sisters–led network active in more than 100 countries with over 6,000 members dedicated to ending human trafficking and all forms of modern slavery.
Originally from the Philippines and a member of the Maryknoll Sisters of Saint Dominic, Sr. Abby began her mission in Japan, where she accompanied migrant women and encountered the hidden realities of exploitation and trafficking. These experiences inspired her lifelong commitment to justice, dignity, and systemic change.
Her leadership within Talitha Kum has spanned roles as National Coordinator in Japan, Regional Coordinator for Asia, and now Talitha Kum International Coordinator based in Rome under the International Union of Superiors General (UISG).
Today, she leads Talitha Kum’s global mission to empower survivors, strengthen collaboration, promote systemic transformation through advocacy and awareness initiatives including coordination of the World Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking on February 8, endorsed by Pope Francis.
