The film is live!

IRMAS: The Life of the Sisters of Mary is a documentary following the Sisters of Mary’s journey as they work tirelessly to end poverty through education.

Learn the untold story of the Sisters who have dedicated over 60 years to educating and caring for the world’s poorest children.

From their work in the dust covered villages of rural Tanzania to the remote regions of Brazil, we invite you to witness the mission of the Sisters of Mary as they travel to help the poorest children.

Watch Irmas for free online

Watch now

Donate to support the Sisters of Mary's work

Donate

Winner of a Smiley Charity Film Award

Irmas (which translates to “sisters” in Portuguese), was created as a gift for the Sisters of Mary by supporters and filmmakers Caroline Duclert and Charles Guillemin. Through October 2025, into March 2026 WVC held screenings around the UK to share this beautiful new full-length documentary. The screenings were a great opportunity to share the story of the Sisters, answer questions, and show the very real impact of our donors’ support.

People’s Choice Award winner

On 29th April we were delighted to learn that, thanks to your votes, the documentary won gold in its category in the 2026 Smiley Charity Film Awards! This means so much to the Sisters and all of the children they care for. Thank you!

“We pray that people will be touched and will share their blessings so that we can continue this work of God and Mama Mary.” – Sister Elena

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped bring this film to life, making it a way to share with others that our ever-living and loving God continues to care for children and the marginalized. We also extend heartfelt thanks to all those with generous and compassionate hearts who continually support this mission, as well as to the parents who have entrusted their children to our care, and to the children themselves who continue to place their trust and confidence in us.” – Sisters of Mary, Talisay Girlstown

“It was heart-breaking and inspiring to see the work the sisters do and the wonderful way they reach out to those children who need help. I always admired what they did, but my respect and admiration for them has increased a tenfold and then some. Many thanks to all involved for making this film and allowing a glimpse into this very important work.”

Helen, WVC supporter

“It was so interesting and inspiring to know how people cared. How marvellous and caring these Sisters are, caring for the poor and needy. It was a wonderful masterpiece. May God Bless the Sisters in continuing their work, continue to do what the Lord has given.”

Cecilia, WVC Supporter

“This isn’t just a story about remarkable women; it’s also my story. I am one of the many lives shaped, guided, and lifted by their mission of love and service. Through their quiet sacrifices, the Sisters of Mary gave us more than education - they gave us hope, faith, and a chance to dream again. Watching this film is like coming home. It’s a reminder of how compassion can transform lives - and how that same love continues to live in each of us who were once under their care.”

Merlie, graduate
a girl sitting with her head in her hands

Inspired? Take action

Are you inspired by IRMAS? Here is how you can help even more children escape poverty through education:

  • Make a donation. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a tangible difference in the lives of children around the world
  • Share the link to IRMAS with friends and family
  • Host a film screening at home or in a film club, church, school, or community group
  • Become a regular donor – Regular gifts help to give every child their daily needs and education
  • Sponsor a Family of children in any of our programmes to support their education and care
  • Stay connected with us through our regular newsletters. Get to know us and how your support makes a difference

Help us share the reality of poverty affecting the most vulnerable members of our global community – children.

Your support matters

Help us change the lives of more children. Give a donation so that the Sisters can provide children with a quality education. You can empower the world’s poorest children to live dignified, independent lives – free from poverty.

Donate
Where are they now? The children of IRMAS

Raphaely's story

A group of girls in a classroom sitting at desks

Mika's Story

a boy in school uniform stands his grandmother and a nun outside his home, Tanzania

Mercedes' Story

A girl in uniform hugging two smaller children

Maria's story

A young girl, Maria, in Tanzania stands at the doorway of her mud hut in a yellow dress

About the filmmakers

About the filmaker

Caroline Duclert

Caroline Duclert has been a supporter of the Sisters of Mary’s work for many years. She chose to make this film as a gift to the Sisters in recognition of their work and to help raise awareness of the vital service the Sisters give to the poorest of the poor.

“During a family trip, I met the Irmãs de Maria (Sisters of Mary) who care for teenage girls from the poorest states of Brazil. Before drugs, prostitution, and teenage pregnancies trapped these girls in a vicious cycle, ruining their chances of getting an education. Once they graduated, they were sent on a mission: they would have to try to restore dignity to the women around them and support their communities! What a lesson! How could I invest myself with these masons of love?

To share their message, images have great power. So I decided to produce a documentary film with a true artistic desire, a sincere, joyful and modest film.

Today, the film is ready for you to discover! I invite parishioners, educators and influencers to relay this release to amplify its reach! The film was launched on YouTube on Sunday, October 19, 2025.”

Close