Mary Slessor
A Legacy of Compassion... A Mission That Lives On
Twins Alive Foundation draws inspiration from the humanitarian values associated with Mary Slessor. We believe that honouring her legacy must go beyond remembering her name; it should encourage practical action that improves lives.
MARY SLESSOR: A LEGACY OF COMPASSION
Mary Mitchell Slessor’s story is remembered for her courage, humanitarian service and efforts to protect vulnerable children and women in southeastern Nigeria. Her work among communities in the Calabar region, particularly her care for abandoned twins and children, became an enduring part of her legacy. Historical accounts describe her commitment to protecting children and challenging practices that threatened their lives.
At Twins Alive Foundation, we honour this legacy by working towards a society where every twin, every child and every vulnerable family is treated with dignity, compassion and respect.
Her story is part of our history. Her humanitarian spirit inspires our work.
CONTINUE THE LEGACY
Mary Slessor’s life reminds us that one person’s willingness to stand with vulnerable people can leave a lasting mark on history.
Today, Twins Alive Foundation continues to champion the dignity and wellbeing of twins, multiple births, children and vulnerable families through humanitarian programmes, advocacy, education and community engagement.
MARY SLESSOR AND THE TWINS NATIONAL CONVENTION
The Twins National Convention provides an opportunity to celebrate twins and multiple births, strengthen connections and promote their wellbeing.
It also creates a platform for remembering Mary Slessor and reflecting on the importance of humanitarian service.
Activities associated with the convention may include heritage tours, educational workshops, community engagement, recreational activities and commemorative events.
The Foundation invites twins, multiple-birth families, supporters, partners and members of the public to participate in these activities and help carry the message of compassion into future generations.
PRESERVING THE MARY SLESSOR HERITAGE
Preserving Mary Slessor’s memory is an important part of Twins Alive Foundation’s identity.
Our heritage activities help keep her story visible while encouraging younger generations to understand the humanitarian values associated with her work.
TAF’s heritage initiatives include:
Mary Slessor Commemorative Statue
The Foundation has commemorated Mary Slessor through a statue at her last residence in Use Ikot Oku, Ibiono, Akwa Ibom State, as part of its commitment to preserving her memory.
Annual Heritage Visits
The Foundation undertakes visits to Mary Slessor’s tomb in Calabar, Cross River State, and her cairn at Use Ikot Oku, Ibiono, Akwa Ibom State.
Memorial Thanksgiving
A memorial Thanksgiving service forms part of the Foundation’s commemorative activities during the Twins National Convention.
Education and Awareness
Through events, public engagement and educational activities, we encourage people to learn about Mary Slessor’s life, the history of twins in the region and the continuing importance of protecting vulnerable children.
FROM HISTORICAL LEGACY TO HUMANITARIAN ACTION
Mary Mitchell Slessor’s story is remembered for her courage, humanitarian service and efforts to protect vulnerable children and women in southeastern Nigeria. Her work among communities in the Calabar region, particularly her care for abandoned twins and children, became an enduring part of her legacy. Historical accounts describe her commitment to protecting children and challenging practices that threatened their lives.
At Twins Alive Foundation, we honour this legacy by working towards a society where every twin, every child and every vulnerable family is treated with dignity, compassion and respect.
Her story is part of our history. Her humanitarian spirit inspires our work.
GIVE MARY SLESSOR A DAY
Twins Alive Foundation supports greater public recognition of Mary Slessor’s historical and humanitarian contributions.
Our advocacy encourages communities, institutions and public stakeholders to consider meaningful ways to preserve her memory and educate future generations about her work.
We invite individuals, organisations, schools, community leaders and supporters to join us in promoting awareness to set aside December 2nd to celebrate this Scottish missionary to Nigeria whose work and strong personality allowed her to be trusted and accepted by the locals while spreading Christianity, protecting native children and promoting women’s rights.
Help keep her story alive. Help inspire the next generation.
Mary Slessor Heritage Sites
