Aside from being an activist, which had led to her receiving the Right Livelihood Award in 2005, Irene is also a mother to three children, Camverra Jose Maliamauv, Tania Jo and Katrina Jorene, and several foster children.
Además de ser activista, lo que le llevó a recibir el premio Right Livelihood 2005, Irene es la madre de tres hijos: Camverra Jose Maliamauv, Tania Jo y Katrina Jorene, y otros hijos adoptivos.