Une religieuse brésilienne qui milite en faveur des réfugiés remporte la distinction Nansen du HCR

"Here they supported us, gave us guidance [and] after three months, we felt integrated into Brazilian society," Tanare said. "Sister Rosita helped us with the purchase of equipment, including a massage table, so we could start work. She's the piece of the puzzle that brings everything together, making links with other institutions, and she's always in touch with everyone."

Sister Rosita agreed that her role is often to provide a focal point for others. "Many people don't have the courage to start, but they are willing to support. So, someone needs to lead for us to unite forces," she explained. "If there's a human or humanitarian need, I'm not afraid to act, even if we don't achieve everything we want."

She also forms close personal bonds with many of the people she helps. Jana Alraee, a former teacher, arrived in Brasilia in 2014 with her engineer husband and three daughters after fleeing their home in the Syrian capital, Damascus. Having depleted their savings and unable to speak the language or find regular work, the family considered returning to Syria until a friend introduced them to Sister Rosita.

She found them a Portuguese teacher, helped them establish their now-flourishing Syrian catering business and, most importantly, became an ever-present friend and source of support to the family.

"When someone flees their country because of war, they leave everything behind, their family, mother, father - everyone. Then, when you meet someone like Sister Rosita with such a good heart, she gives you love, advice… I call her 'Mother', I don't call her 'Sister', because she gives me what I miss," said Alraee, clasping Sister Rosita's hand in both of hers. "If I feel lost, she puts me back on the right path … she's always with me, always."