We are pleased to share an encouraging update from the Creating Leaders Scholarship Program, made possible through the generosity and commitment of our supporters.

At the end of last year, four students successfully completed their final exams and graduated from school, marking an important milestone in their educational journeys. Their achievements reflect perseverance, hard work, and a shared belief that education opens doors to opportunity—not only for the students themselves, but also for their families and communities in Timor-Leste.

Voices of Gratitude and Hope

The impact of the program is best expressed through the voices of the students themselves.

One graduate shared her heartfelt thanks:

“I would like to express my deepest and most sincere gratitude to the donors and the Ambassador of the Order of Malta for their generous support and assistance. Through your financial support, I was able to complete my senior high school education at Canossa. I am truly grateful and deeply appreciative of the assistance I received, which played a vital role in helping me complete my studies.”
— Madalena Cardoso

Another graduate spoke about her future aspirations:

“I plan to continue my studies in the health field. My long-term ambition is to pursue higher education abroad and obtain a bachelor’s degree in medicine. I am deeply motivated to gain strong academic knowledge and practical experience so that I may become a competent, skilled, and compassionate doctor in the future. This academic plan represents not only my personal ambition, but also my determination to build a better future for myself and to contribute positively to my family and society.”
— Lucia Soares Guterres

These messages reflect the profound difference that access to education can make—and the lasting impact of donor support.

Looking Ahead

Currently, 14 students are enrolled in the Creating Leaders Scholarship Program, each working diligently toward their educational goals. To ensure these students can continue their studies, we need to raise $16,800 to cover school fees and related expenses for the 2026 academic year.

Sponsoring a student in the Creating Leaders Program costs $100 per month, and gifts of all sizes make a meaningful difference.

With continued support, we can help these young leaders complete their education, build brighter futures, and contribute positively to their communities.

Together, we are Creating Leaders for tomorrow.

Gifts $2 and more are tas deductible for Australian taxpayers.