Last month, the Canadian Ambassador met two remarkable women who had secured positions as Village Chiefs in recent local elections. Their journey to success was part of a pioneering initiative supported by the Canadian Embassy (Indonesia and Timor-Leste) and implemented by Action for Change Foundation (ACF), aimed at strengthening gender equality in Timor-Leste through women’s political participation.
Fifty women from Dili and Baucau with leadership potential were selected to participate in the project. The project encouraged women’s political participation through leadership training and advocacy. Equipped with newfound skills, they bravely entered televised and radio-broadcasted political debates, showcasing their capabilities and vision for a more inclusive future.
From its inception in 2023 to its successful conclusion in 2024, the project exceeded expectations, with seven participants winning in local village elections. This achievement underscores the strides made towards gender equality in Timor-Leste.
For ACF, this success reaffirms its commitment to advocating for women’s rights. Veronica de Sousa, ACF’s Director, expressed gratitude for the support of the Canadian Embassy’s Canada Fund for Local Initiatives, which has been instrumental in empowering women as agents of change.
Looking ahead, Veronica sees potential for expanding the project to more districts in Timor-Leste, ensuring its benefits reach more women. With continued support, this initiative promises to foster a more equitable and inclusive society.
Action for Change Foundation 