Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 1: Sr Luciana Pinto, head of De Mercede home for orphanage, Panir, Derlakatte, has been honoured with the Dakshina Kannada District Kannada Rajyotsava Award for her outstanding contribution to social service and child welfare.
Born in Beltangady on July 6, 1950 to the late Simon Pinto and Theresa Pinto, Sr Luciana is a member of the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation, an institute dedicated to education and social upliftment. With over 35 years of distinguished service, she has dedicated her life to educating, nurturing, and empowering children from underprivileged backgrounds across Karnataka.
Sr Luciana began her journey as a teacher, serving in several reputed institutions including Lourdes Higher Primary School, Bejai, St Joseph’s Higher Primary School, Fajir, St Lawrence School, Vijayadka, and St Philomena’s Higher Primary School, Uppinangady. She later served as headmistress for 18 years, known for promoting academic excellence and holistic development.
Her administrative leadership includes serving as warden and administrator at Shanthi Ashram, Vijayadka for six years and De Mercede Orphanage, Panir for fourteen years. For the past 13 years, she has been leading De Mercede Children’s Home, which shelters and educates over 100 children from various districts without discrimination of caste or religion. Sr Luciana is known for her motherly care, patience, and compassion. Her dedication has inspired many benefactors and volunteers to support the home’s mission. Under her guidance, several children have gone on to pursue professional courses such as IAS and CA, thanks to the support of the Congregation and well-wishers.
Often referred to as the “Living Mother Teresa of the locality,” Sr Luciana has become a symbol of love and beacon of hope, transforming lives through service and faith. In recognition of her tireless service, leadership, and compassion, Sr Luciana Pinto has been honoured with the Kannada Rajyotsava Award, reflecting Karnataka’s enduring values of humanity, inclusivity, and dedication to the marginalized.