The third edition of the MARA Awards, organised by Lydia Abela, were held yesterday, just days ahead of International Women’s Day. The awards celebrate women who have made a meaningful impact on Maltese society and the lives of others.Through this initiative, Dr Abela recognises women from across the islands who have contributed positively to their communities.Among those honoured during the ceremony was Sister Maria Adele Baldacchino, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Dr. Lydia Abela herself, for her decades of dedicated service.The 87-year-old nun has been part of the Sisters of Charity of St Jeanne Antide Thouret for 70 years. For the past 34 years, she has carried out her mission with inmates at the Corradino Correctional Facility in Kordin, where she has become widely known as “the mother of the prisoners”.Her work supporting inmates spiritually and emotionally has earned her deep respect both inside and outside the prison walls.Speaking after receiving the award, Sister Maria Adele expressed heartfelt gratitude.“I don’t have the words to express how thankful I am. I thank God and my superiors who gave me permission to keep working with my children, I call them my children,” she said.She explained that she feels deeply involved in the lives of the inmates she works with, while also remembering the victims affected by their crimes.“I even mention their victims to them because they are hurt as well. In prayers we remember those who are hurt and their families,” she said.Sister Maria Adele also thanked Dr Abela and the prisoners she works with, promising to continue her mission despite her age.“Although I am 87 years old, I ask the Lord to keep giving me courage and strength to continue with those who don’t have a voice and who need to hear the word of God,” she added.The MARA Awards continue to highlight the contributions of women who inspire change and compassion within Maltese society.Well done Sister Baldacchino!Image: Newsbook•