A soccer-loving nun from Brazil, Sister Inah Canabarro, has been recognized as the world's oldest living person at nearly 117 years old, following the passing of Japan’s Tomiko Itooka in December. Born on June 8, 1908, statistical validation by LongeviQuest has confirmed her status as the oldest person based on early life records.

Growing up slender and frail, many doubted Sister Inah would survive childhood. However, her life has been marked by resilience and a contagious spirit, as noted by her 84-year-old nephew, Cleber Canabarro, who regularly visits and communicates with her to keep her spirits high after a couple of recent hospitalizations. In a statement, he observed, “The other sisters say she gets a jolt when she hears my voice; she gets excited.”

In a heartwarming video filmed last February, Sister Inah shares her secrets to longevity, attributing it to her Catholic faith, stating, “I’m young, pretty, and friendly — all very good, positive qualities that you have too.” The cheerful nun enjoys engaging with visitors at her retirement home in Porto Alegre, Brazil, often sharing jokes and exhibiting her artistic talents through miniature paintings of wildflowers.

Canabarro comes from a notable lineage; her great-grandfather was a general during Brazil's tumultuous independence period from Portugal in the 19th century. Throughout her life, she has been committed to religious service and education, influencing many in her community, including notable figures such as General João Figueiredo, the last of Brazil's military dictators from 1964-1985.

A lifelong supporter of her local soccer club, Inter, Canabarro is celebrated annually with birthday festivities complete with cake and decorations featuring the team's red and white colors. Her affection for the sport is evident as she expresses, “White or black, rich or poor, whoever you are, Inter is the team of the people.”

On her 110th birthday, she received congratulations from none other than Pope Francis, acknowledging her commitment to her faith and community. With her recent acknowledgment as the world’s oldest living person, Sister Inah Canabarro now proudly ranks as the 20th oldest documented person in history, following the record of Frenchwoman Jeanne Calment, who lived to the age of 122, as reported by LongeviQuest.

For more on Sister Inah Canabarro, visit AP News, Independent, CBS News, and CNN.