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Alcario Erlander Liberio, Timor-Leste
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.”
Rigoberto Peregrino de Castro Andrade, Timor-Leste
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, Timor-Leste
Ms. Lizia Martinha Gomes is a medical 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”.
Jufrania Auxiliadora Fernandes Martins, Timor Leste
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.
Jania Ana Domingas dos Reis, Timor-Leste
Ms. Jania Ana Domingas dos Reis graduated with a Bachelor of Law with Honours from the National University of East Timor (UNTL). Jania began volunteering in 2017 with Timor-Leste Youth for Peace (TLYFP) after attending the Initiative for Peace Conference (IFP). In 2019, Jania worked as a Protocol Assistant with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation in East Timor for the 20th Anniversary of the Referendum and INTERFET Mission. She was selected by the University of Insper for an exchange programme supported by UNICEF Timor-Leste. Jania also volunteered with OXFAM Timor- Leste to collect flood data in 2021. In 2022, she facilitated the 21st Century Skills Programme for Community Learning Centres in Dili, Manatuto, and Baucau, and continued supporting the School Readiness Programme. Jania has been a member of AJHJTL since 2021 and completed an internship at the Ministry of Finance. She is passionate about youth education and community development
Julmira de Almeida, Timor-Leste
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.
Lcheta da Silva, Timor-Leste
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."
Henny Vianelde de Jesus Pires, Timor-Leste
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”.
Grimolado Abel Martins, Timor-Leste
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.
Elmezio João Campos de Oliveira Carvalho, Timor-Leste
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, Timor-Leste
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.
Cesarinha Ariadna Mendes Ribeiro, Timor-Leste
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.
Nedichya Correia Belo, Timor-Leste
A passionate young leader with a background in corporate law, youth advocacy, and community development. Currently studying Corporate Law at President University, she has gained practical experience through internships at the Ministry of Justice and Dili Development Company, focusing on legal processes and corporate governance.
Nedichya has served as Vice Chairperson of the Student Council at President University, where she supported impactful student initiatives, and as a member of the Youth Parliament Timor-Leste, advocating for youth policies and community-driven solutions. Her experiences leading projects on digital literacy, mental health, and gender awareness reflect her commitment to creating meaningful change.
Growing up in Baucau, Timor-Leste, Nedichya witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by the communities. These inspire her vision of contributing to Timor-Leste's development by empowering youth, strengthening governance, and promoting active societal participation.