Friends of Nano
North India Province
An international lay movement embodying the charisma and altruistic vision of Venerable Nano Nagle (1718-1784), the 18th-century pioneer who founded the Presentation Congregation (PBVM). Together, we strive to foster a more equitable and ecologically sustainable society.
The Movement
Friends of Nano is an international lay movement of men and women who embody the charisma and altruistic vision of Nano Nagle. Formalized during a global assembly in June 2011, the movement serves as a collaborative framework for lay associates and partners dedicated to fostering a more equitable and ecologically sustainable society.
The Presentation Congregation is honoured, humbled and privileged to be celebrating 250 years' Jubilee of its initiation, in 2026.
Building on the timeless values of compassion, resilience, and devotion advocated by the revered Venerable Nano, the FoN movement strives to foster a harmonious and empathetic world.
Global Presence
The Movement currently has a strong presence globally with FON members in Ireland, England, Australia, New Zealand, India, Pakistan, Canada, U.S.A., Chile, Peru, Philippines, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
In India, there are two Provinces: The North India and the South India Province.
Leadership - North India Province
Sr. Jyoti Thomas
Link Sister
Sr. Molly Joseph
Sister Coordinator
Ms. Dhira Madan
Lay Person Coordinator
Core Group Members
The Core Group has been established to look after the activities and events of FoN across the ten Units in North India.
Ms. Dhira Madan
Coordinator
Ms. Leelamma John
Core Group Member
Ms. Brenda Noronha
Core Group Member
Ms. Helen Pinto
Core Group Member
Ms. Shobha Miranda
Core Group Member
Ms. Anna Pinto
Core Group Member
FON Units - North India Province
Our ten units span across five states, each dedicated to serving their local communities.
| State | Units | Facilitators |
|---|---|---|
| Jammu & Kashmir | Jammu and Srinagar Units | Sr. Molly |
| Delhi | Delhi-6, Prernalaya and Bhalswa Units | Ms. Anna Pinto, Ms. Helen Pinto and Ms. Leelamma John |
| Haryana | Dabwali and Rohtak Units | Ms. Dhira Madan and Ms. Brenda Noronha |
| Jharkhand | Jiajor and Maharo Units | Ms. Dhira Madan and Ms. Leelamma John |
| Madhya Pradesh | Sehore Unit | Sr. Molly and Ms. Shobha Miranda |
Philosophic Pillars
The movement's identity is distilled into three core tenets, symbolized by Nano's iconic lantern.
A Passion for the Poorest
Solidarity with the Marginalized, advocating for the disenfranchised and prioritizing the empowerment of those deprived of primary opportunities.
A Partnership with the Divine
Divine Communion, cultivating a profound, contemplative relationship with the Divine through daily spiritual practice.
Covenant with Creation
Ecological Stewardship, honouring a "Covenant with Creation" by championing environmental justice and sustainable lifestyles.
Our Activities Across Units
From education to environmental stewardship, our units engage in diverse activities that reflect Nano Nagle's vision of compassionate service.
Mission of Compassion
Visiting Mother Teresa's Shishu Bhawan at Civil Lines, Delhi, spreading love and care.
Joyful Learning
Celebrating and educating impressionable souls in a playful manner.
Community Celebrations
Christmas celebrations and tree plantation drives across multiple villages.
Community Outreach
Regular engagement and support programs for the underprivileged in Old Delhi.
Strategic Planning
Regular meetings to plan future programmes ensuring sustained community impact.
Community Service
Blood donation camps, recycling textbooks, first aid programmes demonstrating holistic welfare.
Skill Development
Students trained in gymnastics and martial arts, promoting fitness and confidence.
Women Empowerment
Celebrating Women's Day and Bhandara programs where students prepare and distribute food.
Agricultural Support
Helping the community in planting crops, fostering sustainable livelihoods.
Global Impact and Advocacy
With a presence spanning 13+ countries, FoN operates through localized units that translate these ideals into tangible social action.
Key Initiatives
Socio-Educational Initiatives
Facilitating access to education by sponsoring tuition and procuring essential resources for vulnerable children across multiple regions.
Benevolent Outreach
Organizing grassroots programs to provide material aid—including blankets, clothes, hygiene kits, and rations—to families facing economic hardship.
Celebrating Festivals
Actively participating in all local community festivals, fostering unity and cultural harmony across diverse regions.
Our Sacred Commitment
The statue of Venerable Nano Nagle with the children - Cork, Ireland
Friends of Nano endeavour to make a difference in the lives of those who need us the most by their selfless efforts and untiring commitment. With God's Grace and Ven. Nano's blessings they pledge to surge ahead continually, with a new found zest and zeal.