Following the passing of the world’s oldest person, Tomiko Itooka from Japan (who lived to 116), a new record-holder emerged at the end of last year. According to the LongeviQuest, an organization that tracks supercentenarians around the globe on Sunday, the latest title of the world’s oldest living person belongs to Sister Inah Canabarro, a Catholic nun from Brazil and an avid soccer fan.
LongeviQuest confirmed that Ms Canabarro, as of today, is 116 years and 211 days old, making her the oldest known living person.
Sister Canabarro, nearing 117 years old, is currently regarded as the world’s oldest living person. Born on June 8, 1908, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Ms Canabarro has been actively involved in religious work since her teenage years.
Brazilian news outlet G1 reported that Ms Canabarro now resides at the Sisters of Teresa Convent in Porto Alegre, the largest city in Rio Grande do Sul. In an October 1, 2024, interview that coincided with the International Day of Older Persons, she was seen in a wheelchair and humorously remarked on her age, saying, “I’ve aged a bit. I’m 116.”
Ms Canabarro also received special congratulations from Pope Francis on her 110th birthday.
The Associated Press reported that a video filmed at the convent last February shows Ms Canabarro joking with others and sharing a wildflower painting.
When asked about the secret to her extraordinary longevity, Ms Canabarro attributed it to faith and a positive mindset. “I am young, beautiful, and kind,” she said. “These excellent qualities are what all of you have, too.”
Ms Canabarro is also well-known in her community as a passionate soccer fan.
In a heartwarming gesture, SC Internacional, a top Brazilian professional soccer club based in Porto Alegre, gifted her a team jersey last year as a birthday present, recognizing her as their oldest supporter.
Before Ms Canabarro, Sister André (born Lucile Randon), a French nun, was the world’s oldest known nun. She passed away in 2023 at the age of 118.
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