New Phase for Salesian Representation at the U.N.

New Phase for the Salesian Representation at the U.N.

(ANS – Rome/New York – June 30, 2026) – In continuity with the Salesian Congregation’s commitment to advocacy for young people, especially those who are poorest and most vulnerable, Angelica “Vivi” Iglesias is the first layperson to be entrusted with the responsibilities of main representative of the Salesians of Don Bosco at the United Nations in New York. She takes forward the service previously carried out by Fr. Mathew Thomas Panamkattu, Fr. Thomas Pallithanam, and Fr. Thomas Brennan, who previously served in this role and helped develop the Salesian presence within the United Nations system in New York.

This handover marks both continuity and renewal in a mission that connects the experience of Salesian works on the ground with international reflection and decision-making on the rights, dignity, and future of young people.

Ms. Iglesias brings to this responsibility significant experience in Catholic advocacy, partnership-building, community engagement, and mission-driven leadership. She has worked with Catholic Relief Services, accompanying national partners, supporting advocacy initiatives, and coordinating campaigns in favor of vulnerable communities. Her previous service in the diocese of St. Petersburg, Fla., especially in Hispanic ministry and in support of diocesan leadership, has also given her broad experience in ecclesial coordination, intercultural communication, and pastoral service.

A Salesian Cooperator with long-standing links to the Salesian mission and to youth ministry, Ms. Iglesias will support the Salesian presence at the U.N. in New York thru relationship-building, networking, documentation, continuity, and collaboration with partners in the U.N. environment. Vivi joins the Salesians’ central advocacy team within the Youth Ministry Department under the guidance of the general councilor Fr. Rafael Bejarano, working thru Salesian Missions, the Congregation’s representative agency at the U.N., led by Fr. Michael Conway.

The Salesian presence at the U.N. in New York is one expression of a broader commitment that also includes engagement with the U.N. in Geneva, Vienna, and Nairobi, as well as with the European institutions in Brussels and UNESCO in Paris. Thru these presences, the Congregation seeks to bring the voices and experiences of young people, especially those most affected by poverty, exclusion, migration, conflict, lack of education, and social vulnerability, into dialog with institutions and partners working for the common good.

As this new phase begins, the Youth Ministry Department expresses gratitude to Fr. Panamkattu for his years of generous service in this field and welcomes Ms. Iglesias as she takes up this responsibility. The handover renews the commitment to make the Salesian voice present wherever the dignity, rights, and future of young people are at stake.