Annie Joseph
Women’s empowerment advocate from Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), was deeply influenced in her early years by her proximity to Mother Teresa, whose first school was established in Joseph’s family home in 1957. This formative experience instilled in her a lifelong commitment to social justice and service.
She pursued postgraduate studies in Social Work at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai – an unconventional choice at the time – where she was mentored by noted social activist Medha Patkar. Her academic and personal influences, including interactions with figures such as Jean Vanier, Brother Andrews, and Brother Roger of Taizé, further shaped her dedication to the marginalized.
At the age of 25, Joseph returned to Kolkata to found Ankur Kala, an organization committed to empowering underprivileged women through skill development and economic self-reliance. For over three decades, she has led the organization in various capacities and continues to serve as its Secretary.
Her international engagements, particularly through the Taizé community, allowed her to witness poverty in diverse contexts across continents, further reinforcing her vocation. Throughout her career, Joseph has remained steadfast in her mission of “sowing seeds of hope” among the disadvantaged.
by Annie Joseph