Timor-Leste Alumni

Ms. Expedita Marques da Silva Freitas holds a Bachelor of Education from the National University of Timor Lorosa'e (UNTL). She has been deeply engaged in various organizations, including the Rotaract Club, Timor Leste Debating Group (TLDG), and the American Corner. In her previous role as the Head of Public Relations for the organizing team of the Dili Jazz and Blues Festival, she coordinated talk shows, panel discussions, information sessions, and exhibitions in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Dili, Timor Leste, as well as donors from NGOs and local businesses. Additionally, she has volunteered extensively in environmental programs. She is passionate about the transformative power of education, believing it is a key driver of social and economic progress. 

Jufrania Auxiliadora Fernandes Martins

Jufrania is a final-year medical student at Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’e, with a strong passion for health and community service. She has gained hands-on experience volunteering at hospitals and clinics and has been actively involved in public health efforts, including door-to-door education on health and environmental issues, aiming to improve the well-being of the communities she serves. 

Fluent in five languages, Jufrania believes that education and connection are essential for building healthier, more sustainable communities. 

Guided by the principle that “prevention is better than cure,” she is dedicated to raising awareness about health risks related to the environment and our lifestyles. Jufrania is committed to making a positive impact through compassion, knowledge, and service, believing that good health, supported by responsible choices and balanced living, is the foundation of a thriving society. 

Rigoberto Peregrino de Castro Andrade

How can I add value to my community? Rigoberto asks this question daily whenever he is faced with a societal challenge. As a results-driven individual, he seeks to be a constant part of positive change. He studied at the University of Cambodia, majored in International Relations. He is highly interested in civic engagement. For this reason, he participated in many programs and is involved in youth organization. He is an alumni of the Young Regional Affairs Dialogue 2023, CALD Youth Political Academy 2021, ACCESS micro-scholarship program as well as American Corner volunteer. He enjoys being involved in academic activities, such as Model United Nations conference, Model ASEAN Meeting, Model Asia‐Europe Meeting, etc. These events have taught him how social issues are addressed locally, regionally, and globally and inspired him to be a change-maker to better develop his country through volunteer opportunities.

Lizia Martinha Gomes

Ms. Lizia Martinha Gomesis amedical student with a passion for public health, youth empowerment and community service. She has actively contributed as a Spanish mentor for a non-profit organization, where she developed innovative syllabi, modules, and interactive teaching methods to engage students. Lizia has been involved in community service in rural areas, focusing on public health education and empowering local communities to address health challenges. Lizia also participated in an online competition from Thailand named Circular Innovation Challenge and she was the team leader. Her experience extends to online volunteering with the UN’s Skill Our Future program. A dedicated advocate for accessible health and youth empowerment, Lizia aspires to work with WHO to improve public health and working with youth generations in her country. She believes “A healthier generation builds a stronger future”

Alcario Erlander Liberio

Mr. Alcario Erlander Liberio, as a final-year student of the East Timor Institute of Business majoring in Information Technology, was awarded as an active student for representing the university to participate in national and international event competitions. Alcario is enthusiastic and actively involved in various youth-led organizations, as previously he was a volunteer both at an American corner called Uma Amerika and was part of the YSEALI Seeds 2023 project called Southeast Asian Readers. Currently, Alcario is a volunteer at the Educating The Future (ETF) organization as he and his team work hard to liberate the potential of disadvantaged youth in developing nations through the power of education. He actively volunteered in civic engagement-related programs. He states that “engaging in volunteer activities not only helps you to advance your soft and hard skills; however, it leads you to contribute to the community and country development starting with small actions."

Nelcia Francisca Sozinha

Nelcia is a final year student in Nutrition from Universidade Nacional Timor-Lorosa’e, and currently, she works as a part-time teacher at International EAGLE Kids School, teaching Hygiene and Nutrition. In her previous years, she had been volunteering in Uma Amerika as a team coordinator of English for Children. She was also part of Dili Mock Trial (DMT) as well as Timor-Leste Debating Group (TLDG). In addition, she has leading different surveys on nutrition and business sectors with different international organizations in Timor-Leste. Through her journey, she has gained more knowledge and abilities, and has showed her quality to her personal and her professional development. She truly believes that through the upcoming leadership programs, she will become more confident and being part of the contribution on addressing malnutriotion issues in Timor-Leste as well as in the region. 

Zenilda Gabriela Lourdes da Conceição

Ms. Zenilda Gabriela Lourdes da Conceição is a final-year Chemistry student at the National University of Timor-Leste. As an enthusiastic volunteer, she is committed to community empowerment and youth leadership development. Zenilda was selected as a participant of the Rotary Youth Leadership Award Timor-Lorosa’e (RYLA-TL) in 2022, where she honed her leadership skills. She is currently serving as a facilitator of the RYLA-TL program, where she leads training and development sessions for young aspiring leaders.

Passionate about community empowerment, Zenilda works to inspire youth to take an active role in shaping their society through leadership and volunteerism. She believes that “Empower others is the path to building a better future.”

Ms. Julmira de Almeida graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Geology and Petroleum Engineering from the National University of Timor-Leste (UNTL). She currently serves as the interim president of the Geographic Information System Group (G-SIG), a dedicated youth-led organization focused on promoting geospatial technology for environmental management and disaster risk management.

Julmira has collaborated with international organizations such as World Vision Timor-Leste, Oxfam in Timor-Leste, and the Open Mapping Hub Asia Pacific, utilizing geospatial tools to address climate change and conduct disaster risk mapping for anticipatory action in the municipalities of Bobonaro, Ainaro, and Aileu.

As a recognized young leader, Julmira has participated in prestigious programs, including the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) Mentorship Program and the Open Mapping Guru Fellowship in 2024, further enhancing her expertise in geospatial solutions for sustainable development.

Judelio Da Silva Barros Barreto

Mr. Judelio Da Silva Barros Barreto is a Bachelor of Computer Engineering student at the National University of Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL) and a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and environmental sustainability. Since February 2024, Judelio has volunteered full-time with the Timorese Youth for Change program at Casa de Produção Audiovisual (CPA), producing over 15 impactful video and audio projects to amplify marginalized and youth voices. He also serves as Vice-President of the General Assembly for the Laudato Si Movement Timor-Leste, promoting environmental advocacy and organizing the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY Timor-Leste) 2024. 

Judelio represented Timor-Leste at the ASEAN Foundation Model ASEAN Meeting + Australia (AFMAM + Australia) 2024 in Jakarta and completed the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA-TL) 2024 training camp. Guided by the belief that “protecting the environment is a shared responsibility,” he actively contributes to education, environmental protection, and youth leadership development. 

Henny Vianelde de Jesus Pires

Henny Vianelde de Jesus Pires graduated with a Bachelor of Geology and Petroleum Engineering from the National University of Timor-Leste (UNTL). She is the co-founder of G-SIG Timor-Leste, a volunteer group that uses geospatial data tools to promote environmental awareness and address climate change. Henny is also an animator in the Laudato Si’ Movement Timor-Leste, actively engaging youth in environmental advocacy and sustainable development initiatives. Henny is also recipient of the Society of Petroleum Engineers Scholarship Award in Perth, Australia. Her volunteer experience includes projects such as the Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration initiative with World Vision Timor-Leste, anticipatory disaster mapping with the Red Cross Climate Center, and the Green Woman Farmer training program. Henny believes that “Young generations should raise their voices for a sustainable future."

Lcheta da Silva

Ms. Lcheta da Silva graduated with a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Queensland in December 2024 and is currently pursuing a degree in Agribusiness at the University of Timor-Leste (UNTL). She has gained valuable experience as a Communication Officer and has proudly represented Timor-Leste in global programs, such as the UNESCO Water Resilience Challenge 2023 and the YSEALI Regional Workshop on Mental Wellness.

As a youth leader, Lcheta successfully organized the 3rd National Asia Parliamentary Debating Competition in 2022. She was recognized as Best Delegate at the Dili Model United Nations in 2019 and received an Honorable Mention at the Asia World Model United Nations in 2018.

Passionate about the environment, Lcheta actively contributes to climate and community campaigns, firmly believing that "the environment is not ours to exploit but a legacy to protect for future generations.

Portia de Jesus dos Santos

Ms. Portia, a final year student of Nutrition and Dietetics at National University of Timor-Leste (UNTL). She is a graduate and former participant of the Access Microscholarship Programme, which was sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in Dili, Timor-Leste, in 2022. She had also been chosen to attend the Access Alumni Summit 2024 in Jakarta, Indonesia. Additionally, Portia is a co-founder and coordinator of ‘EnviroVista’ youth group which with her team, they successfully organized a project in Dili which focuses on environmental education. She’s currently work as a secretary at Laudato Si’ Movement Timor-Leste Association (LSM-TL).

Through LSM-TL, Portia and her team helped on empowered community by being a facilitator to facilitate a climate change training to vulnerable community in the Mercy Corps Project in Dili in 2023. In addition, they also provide climate change training to local community in Aileu municipality through a project of Plan International Timor-Leste in 2024.

Lucrecia Araújo Dos Reis

Affectionately known as Lula, is a dedicated medical student at the Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL) and an active member of the student council. Lula is currently serving as a first-term facilitator for the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards – Timor-Leste (RYLA-TL). During her secondary school years, she showcased exceptional leadership as the head of a science group, representing Timor-Leste at the Young Inventors Challenge in Malaysia. Her team achieved remarkable success, winning the World Science Day competition for three consecutive years, which led to opportunities to participate in exchange programs in Oecusse and Ermera. In 2024, Lula was honored as a youth delegate contributing to the writing of Timor-Leste’s National Youth Statement. Passionate about the intersection of public health and environmental sustainability, she firmly believes that “good health begins with a clean and sustainable environment.” 

Mr. Elmezio João Campos de Oliveira Carvalho is a finalist student majoring in Accounting at the National University of East Timor (UNTL) and the Coordinator of the Academic Club for the Study of Economics and Management at UNTL. Elmezio is a leader and entrepreneur who is currently leading and actively participating in a volunteer organization. At the same time, Elmezio is still fighting and looking for investment for his project called MAFAN, an online business platform that can be a place for vendors. He believes that his idea will empower the economy.

Efa Ricarda dos Santos

Efa Ricarda dos Santos is an undergraduate student of Exact Sciences at the National University of Timor Lorosa’e. She is a volunteer at American Space Dili (February 2024 - February 2025) and served as the coordinator for the Alumni Committee, working closely with U.S. Embassy exchange program alumni to stay connected with American Space programs and events. Efa also collaborates with youth organizations to support community service initiatives.

In 2024, Efa won the Ideias – Díli Inovar competition, where she pitched her idea for a paper recycling business, securing funding to create personalized eco-friendly products.

She is also a member of the Women in Business Association of Timor-Leste, contributing to the ICT team. Additionally, she was selected as a YSEALI AI FutureMakers 2025 in Chonburi, Thailand, and actively participates in various YSEALI and professional development programs to enhance her skills and impact.

Efa believes that empowering women to become entrepreneurs and achieve financial stability benefits society and contributes to sustainable progress for the future

Dirce Freitas Mendes

Ms. Dirce Freitas Mendes, in her fourth year of pursuing a bachelor's degree majoring Nurse at Instituto Ciencia de Saúde (ICS). Besides, she is a staff of Timor Aid as an Administration Assistant, Co-Founder of the Company MATAK SAUDAVEL and Founder of English Basic Conversation Group (EBC). Currently she running her own business namely “ICE LOLLI LAGA MATA”. 

Dirce is a young inspiring leader who loves engaging herself in various youth-led volunteer groups to develop her personal and professional growth and conducting a series of program activities to contribute to making positive impacts in her home country. She is an active Timorese Youths Initiative for Development (TYIFD) and Laudato Si’Movement Timor-Leste (LSM-TL) member.  

JELICIA MARIA DA SILVA DE ARAÚJO

Ms. Jelicia Maria da Silva de Araújo, a fresh graduate of Biomedical and Laboratory Science from National University of Timor-Lorosa’e and awarded top ten Youth Integrity Fellows of Timor-Leste for 2025. Jelicia has a strong passion for learning and growth. She’s passionate in developing new services that meet market needs focusing on online business in retail stores and digital Credit. She involved in MOVE NGO focusing on Entrepreneurship. From business taught her to be patience, creative to find solution, manage my time between schools and business, but financial independence was the best part of the journey. Previously, she helps another woman to do reseller and help them to be financial intendent. She believes that “Woman need to be financial intendent for personal growth and more confidence, also building long-term security.

Grimolado Abel Martins

Grimoaldo Abel Martins is a dedicated student from Timor-Leste, is passionate about driving change in his community through innovation and sustainable development. Currently pursuing his studies in Electronical and Electrical Engineering at the National University of Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL). He is committed to enhancing his knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact.

In addition to his academic pursuits, He is actively participating in community initiatives and entrepreneurial projects that foster economic empowerment. His dedication to problem-solving and leadership has earned him a place in the prestigious YSEALI program, where he aims to refine his ideas and collaborate with like-minded individuals to bring meaningful change to Timor-Leste. He believes in the power of education and innovation as tools for transforming lives and building stronger communities.

Lucia Norberta graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Laboratory from National University of Timor Leste (UNTL). She is an enthusiastic and dedicated individual that have a big dream to drive positive changes in her country, particularly in advancing health equity and community participation. During her internship and volunteer in Hospital and Clinic, where she engaged directly with unserved populations. These experiences have heightened her commitment to community-led solution for public health. She is passionate about addressing a significant challenge in her community with a lot of factors that contribute to the persistence of public health issues, through health advocacy and health education, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being. And she believes that “if there is a healthy country in this world, most of its people must be healthy”

Cesarinha Ariadna Mendes Ribeiro

Ms. Cesarinha Ariadna Mendes Ribeiro, is a final-year medical student at the National University of Timor-Leste. Currently awaiting for her graduation this year. In addition to studying for the past seven years, she has been a facilitator in organizing health campaigns and medical check up in rural areas annually since 2018, alongside her colleagues. All the activities were conducted on a voluntary basis, and they funded these initiatives themselves, with some support from donors. She has worked in several municipalities, including Letefoho (Ermera), Ainaro, Maliana, Likisa, Welaluhu (Same), and Oecusse. Her focus has been on preventive methods, advocating for healthy lifestyles, and targeting students from junior and senior high schools, as well as parents and the elderly in the community. She also volunteer at few health post around Dili including Lemokari, Kampung Alor and Becora to do medical check up and health promotion

Tivania Cardoso Barbosa

Ms. Tivania Cardoso Barbosa is a sophomore, law student at National University of Timor-Lorosa’e. She is passionate in advocating about social justice that aims to make a meaningful impact to her community. Currently she is a professional intern in HRC stands for Human Right Center at National University of Timor-Lorosa’e.  

Besides, Tivania really enjoying in volunteering, she is an alumna at American Corner, Dili Timor-Leste as an EducationUSA Assistant 2024. She is actively seeking the opportunities to engaging herself in various project and initiative to contribute and making positive impact in her small home country, she is an active Timor-Leste youth for peace (TLYFP) and member of Rotary Youth Leadership Awards – RYLA.