A Brazilian nun with a lifelong passion for soccer has become the world’s oldest living person, marking another remarkable chapter in a life that began nearly 117 years ago.
Sister Inah Canabarro, who was once considered too frail to survive childhood, has been officially recognized as the world’s oldest person following the passing of a Japanese woman, according to LongeviQuest, the global authority on supercentenarian documentation.
A life devoted to faith and joy
“I’m young, pretty, and friendly—all very positive qualities that you have too!” the spirited Teresian nun told visitors at her Porto Alegre retirement home, exemplifying the cheerful demeanor that has characterized her remarkable life.
Her vitality was recently captured in a LongeviQuest video, where she shared jokes, displayed her miniature wildflower paintings, and recited the Hail Mary prayer with unwavering devotion.
A rich historical legacy
Born June 8, 1908, Sister Canabarro’s family tree includes a distinguished great-grandfather who played a pivotal role in Brazil’s post-independence period as a celebrated general. Her religious journey began in her teens, taking her from Montevideo to Rio de Janeiro before returning to her southern Brazilian roots.
Soccer, faith, and recognition
Her dedication to both faith and football has earned her unique distinctions:
- Received personal recognition from Pope Francis on her 110th birthday
- Holds the position of the second-oldest nun in recorded history
- Maintains devoted support of her local soccer club, which celebrates her birthday annually with team-colored festivities
“Whether white or black, rich or poor, whoever you are, Inter is the people’s team,” she declared during her 116th birthday celebration with the club’s president.
A place in history
Following the December passing of Japan’s Tomiko Itooka, Sister Canabarro now ranks as the 20th oldest documented person in history. The record for longevity remains with Frenchwoman Jeanne Calment, who lived 122 years before her death in 1997.
LongeviQuest confirmed Sister Canabarro’s new status on Saturday, verifying her early life records and cementing her place in the annals of human longevity. For the soccer-loving nun who credits her Catholic faith for her long life, it’s just another blessing in a life filled with them.