This is an interactive flipbook. Use the arrows below the cover to navigate the magazine, or open it in full-screen mode for the best reading experience.
This edition reflects on Mary Ward International’s journey with communities in Timor-Leste, and the courage, leadership, and hope that continue to shape this work.
In 2002, Sr Mary Wright ibvm called the Loreto Sisters to move beyond borders and respond to the needs of neighbouring communities. This “Courage to Move” led Loreto Sisters from Australia, Vietnam, and India to Timor-Leste, where their presence continues to support education, opportunity, and locally led change.
Inside this edition, you will read stories from Gari-uai, Ostico, Triloca, Venilale, Baucau, and Dili, where the Loreto Sisters and Mary Ward International walk alongside women, children, and communities as they build stronger futures.
In Gari-uai, Centro Loreto continues to provide a strong foundation for young children through quality early education. Each year, children graduate with stronger literacy, numeracy, social, and emotional skills, ready for the next stage of learning. The attached community centre also supports adults through non-formal education, health programs, English lessons, and sewing workshops.
In Ostico, clean water has transformed daily life. Families who once relied on a contaminated stream now have access to safe water through a bore and tank system. Outdoor laundries have reduced the burden on women and created new places for connection and community life. The same water infrastructure is helping local families grow food, strengthen agribusiness, and build income through cooperative farming.
This edition also shares the work of women-led cooperatives, including Hamelale in Ostico and HAFUCO in Triloca. Through poultry farming, food production, savings schemes, maternal and child health education, and small business training, women are creating income, sharing knowledge, and leading change in their communities.
You will also read reflections from Loreto College Coorparoo students, whose immersion in Timor-Leste deepened their understanding of connection, service, and the shared mission of the Loreto community.
Together, these stories remind us that strong women equal strong communities. When women are supported with education, resources, and opportunity, they lead change that reaches families, communities, and future generations.
"*" indicates required fields
