Teresa Kearney, later known as Mother Kevin, was born in Knockenrahan, Co. Wicklow. A devoted Catholic missionary, she would go on to found the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Africa, a congregation committed to healthcare, education, and pastoral work across East Africa.
Known for her tireless efforts in Uganda and Kenya, Mother Kevin established schools, hospitals, and training centres, significantly improving access to education and healthcare—especially for women and children.
Her work earned her widespread respect both in Ireland and Africa, and her legacy continues through the global work of the congregation she founded.