The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate became a full member of VIVAT International a few years after its foundation in 2000. As Director of the OMI General Service for Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC), I am often asked about VIVAT’s mission and how it connects to our work. While the VIVAT Charter offers important clarification, I believe that firsthand experience with VIVAT, whether in New York, Geneva, or elsewhere, provides the clearest understanding of its mission and impact.
This conviction motivated me to apply for an internship with VIVAT International. With the approval of our Superior General and the acceptance of the VIVAT Board of Trustees, I was privileged to intern at the VIVAT New York office from February until March 16, 2026. Through this experience, I had the opportunity to work closely with the VIVAT New York Team and engage with various NGOs and UN-related events. In the following reflections, I would like to share what I learned and gained during this enriching period.
Understanding the Power of NGO Collaboration
New York is home to countless NGOs, working groups, and religious organizations committed to raising awareness among decision-makers and influencing policies that affect the poor and marginalized. Despite their large number, the scale of global challenges demands even greater collaboration to maintain strong advocacy and pressure on UN commissions and Permanent Missions.
I quickly realized that solidarity and cooperation are essential to the effectiveness of NGOs. Their collective action plays a decisive role in advancing declarations and resolutions that support vulnerable communities. This is especially true in matters concerning indigenous rights, conflict resolution, and social injustice.
For organizations affiliated with VIVAT International, Religious at the UN (RUN), and the Justice Coalition of Religious (JCOR), shared discernment and united action are crucial. Advocacy at the UN is not individual work; it is a mission carried forward through partnership and commitment.
The VIVAT New York Team works in this demanding environment with remarkable energy and dedication. Their weekly schedule is filled with meetings, forums, side events, and advocacy efforts focused on defending the dignity and rights of the world’s most vulnerable.
During my internship, I attended more than 25 events, both in person and online, including UN and NGO hybrid meetings, conferences such as the 64th Commission for Social Development (CSocD64, February 2–12, 2026), and the 70th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70, March 9–12, 2026).
I also participated in two RUN sessions held at the Salvation Army Building on February 4 and March 3, during which I committed to deeper engagement in UN advocacy and lobbying. These meetings allowed me to connect with members of JCOR and representatives of other religious congregations.
One memorable moment was my brief conversation with the Chair of CSocD64, who is also Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. This exchange gave me the opportunity to mention the situation of the Oblates in Ukraine and to reflect on the importance of personal encounters in diplomatic spaces.
Another significant experience was our visit to the Holy See Mission on February 21, which opened new possibilities for strengthening relationships among different branches of the Church involved in advocacy and international cooperation.
Learning Through the VIVAT New York Team
Working with the VIVAT Team in New York was marked by a strong spirit of mutual support and fraternity. I felt welcomed and encouraged to communicate openly with Paul Rahmat, Marides Santos, and Daniel LeBlanc, whose collaboration greatly enriched my experience.
I deeply appreciated Paul’s guidance and leadership, Marides’ warm hospitality and care for the team’s daily well-being, and Daniel’s excellent webinars and practical orientation. Their active participation in NGO meetings and RUN sessions offered me valuable insight into the realities of international advocacy.
What I Gained from This Experience
Through this internship, I gained a clearer understanding of how VIVAT addresses global issues and promotes policy advocacy at the United Nations. I also learned how important networking is among civil society organizations, religious congregations, and international institutions.
With the support of the New York Team, I obtained my UN ground pass, which allowed me access to secure areas of the UN building. I also received permission to attend NGO sessions during JCOR and RUN gatherings.
Participating in side events such as “A Home for All is Justice for All” helped me better understand how advocacy can respond to urgent issues such as housing injustice, discrimination, and the denial of essential services. These experiences strengthened my conviction that grassroots concerns must be brought to global platforms.
During the CSocD64 sessions, I was particularly impressed by the discipline and structure of the Commission proceedings. Delegates were expected to respect time limits, fulfill their responsibilities, and present their positions with professionalism and courtesy. Observing these processes gave me valuable insight into how the UN system functions and how international dialogue contributes to transformative social development.
Overall, attending these sessions, together with the Civil Society Forum and meetings with NGOs and religious communities, deepened my commitment to social justice and strengthened my desire to continue advocating for human dignity and sustainable development.
Conclusion and Gratitude
My internship experience in New York with the VIVAT Team, along with my participation in events at the United Nations, the Church Center, and the Salvation Army Building, provided me with valuable insight into the methods and strategies used in international advocacy.
I am deeply grateful to the VIVAT New York Team for their active engagement with the UN and their dedication to grassroots networking and justice work. I also sincerely appreciate VIVAT International for approving this internship opportunity, which has greatly strengthened my commitment to advocacy and mission.
I extend special thanks to Greta Fernandez for her encouragement and support in helping me participate in this initiative. I am equally grateful to our Superior General, Fr. Chicho, for his trust and motivation throughout this experience.
My sincere appreciation also goes to the New York Team, to Fr. Keany, parish priest of Ascension Church, for his warm hospitality, and to my brother Daniel LeBlanc for his assistance and orientation during this journey.
This experience has not only broadened my understanding of international advocacy but has also renewed my commitment to serve the poor and marginalized with greater conviction and solidarity.
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