- 09 March, 2025
As the Catholic world progresses forward during the Jubilee Year of Hope, one woman has already been living its essence long before its commencement. Cynthia Fernandes, a well-known social influencer from Goa, has dedicated her life to being a pilgrim of hope, using her retirement years not for rest but for relentless service.
Through social work, counselling, and digital outreach, she has touched countless lives, proving that age is no barrier to making a difference. This International Women's Day, we celebrate Cynthia’s unwavering spirit and her profound impact on society.
Although she was born and raised in Mumbai, Cynthia’s roots trace back to Nerul, a village on the coastal belt of North Goa. After spending three decades in the UAE working for prestigious companies, Cynthia returned to India in the year 2014 with a heart full of purpose. Now based in a remote village in Belgaum, Karnataka, she dedicates her days to social work, job placements, matrimony services, and counselling—extending a helping hand to those in need. Her work is not confined to physical boundaries; through her presence on Facebook and WhatsApp, she has harnessed the power of social media to uplift, inspire, and create opportunities for many.
While many perceive retirement as a period of slowing down, Cynthia saw it as an opportunity to serve on an even greater scale. She runs a prayer broadcast on social media to help bring people closer to God, collects and distributes second-hand clothes to the needy, and actively promotes small businesses and causes through her online platforms. Her ability to merge faith, service, and technology has allowed her to reach people beyond geographical barriers, embodying the modern-day Good Samaritan.
Cynthia’s spiritual journey as a Catholic has been deeply transformative. Pilgrimages to Medjugorje and St. Padre Pio’s shrine in Italy strengthened her faith and commitment to service. In Medjugorje, she felt an overwhelming sense of peace and divine inspiration, while her visit to St. Padre Pio’s Shrine deepened her understanding of healing and devotion. These sacred experiences have shaped her mission, reinforcing her belief in the power of faith-driven service.
In recognition of her extraordinary acts of service to society, Cynthia was honoured with the Judge’s Choice Life Changer Award at the prestigious Abhaya Bravery Awards 2025 in Bengaluru on March 7th. Instituted in memory of the doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata, the Abhaya awards recognise women who have done outstanding work to promote the safety and empowerment of women in society. It also celebrates achievements by women in Karnataka in various sectors, including health, education, sports, journalism, fashion, and technology.
On this International Women’s Day, Cynthia shares a powerful message:
“To every woman out there—whether you are a homemaker, a professional, an entrepreneur, or a dreamer—your strength is immeasurable, and your journey is invaluable. Embrace your individuality, support one another, and never doubt your worth. Empowered women uplift families, communities, and the nation. Let’s break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a future where every woman has the freedom to thrive. Happy Women’s Day!”
Cynthia Fernandes is more than a social worker; she is a living example of faith in action. Her journey is a testament to how one person, with unwavering faith and determination, can impact countless lives.
As Catholics worldwide progress with the Jubilee Year of Hope, Cynthia’s story serves as a call to action: to be pilgrims of hope not just during a jubilee year but in every moment of our lives. Her legacy is an inspiration—one that urges us all to use our gifts, time, and faith to bring hope to those who need it most.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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