Teresa of the Andes, born Juana Enriqueta Josefina de los Sagrados Corazones Fernández Solar on July 13, 1900, in Santiago, Chile, was a Discalced Carmelite nun and the first Chilean to be canonized by the Catholic Church. Raised in a devout and affluent family, she exhibited a deep spiritual inclination from an early age. Educated at the College of the Sacred Heart, she was influenced profoundly by the autobiography of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, which inspired her to pursue a life dedicated to God. At 14, she resolved to become a Carmelite nun, and on May 7, 1919, she entered the Carmelite monastery in Los Andes, adopting the religious name Teresa of Jesus.

During her brief time in the convent, Teresa was known for her deep spirituality and commitment to prayer. She maintained extensive correspondence, sharing her reflections on faith and devotion. Tragically, she contracted typhus and, recognizing the severity of her illness, was permitted to take her religious vows in articulo mortis on April 7, 1920. She passed away five days later, on April 12, 1920, at the age of 19. Her writings and letters have since inspired many, reflecting her profound love for God and her desire to serve others.

The process for Teresa's canonization began in 1947 and was revitalized in the 1970s. She was declared Venerable in 1986, beatified by Pope John Paul II in Santiago on April 3, 1987, and canonized on March 21, 1993, in St. Peter's Basilica. Teresa of the Andes holds the distinction of being the first Chilean saint and the first Discalced Carmelite from Latin America to be canonized. Her shrine in Auco, near Los Andes, has become a significant pilgrimage site, attracting thousands annually who seek inspiration from her life of holiness and dedication.