AILEU, 7-8 August 2025 – The Timor-Leste Red Cross (CVTL) officially opened its National Youth Camp 2025 under the theme “Empowerment and Leadership for Youth” in Kabasfatin Sub-Village, Seloi-Malere Village, Aileu-Vila Post Administrative, Aileu Municipality. The event was inaugurated by the Coordinator of the Civil Society Support Office (GASC), Eng. Joaquim da Costa Freitas, alongside CVTL President Mrs. Madalena F. Melo H. Costa Soares. Distinguished guests included the President of CVTL Youth, Ms. Domingas Fátima de Araújo; CVTL Secretary General, Mr. Luis Pedro Pinto; Head of the ICRC Office in Timor-Leste, Mr. João Martins Alves; IFRC Focal Point in Timor-Leste, Mr. Macario Lopes; and Mr. Md. Sazzad Ansari, Country Representative of the American Red Cross Delegation in Timor-Leste.
The camp brought together youth volunteers from all 13 CVTL branches, including School Red Cross Youth (JCV) and members of other youth organizations. More than 670 participants gathered for the opening day, which also marked the official launch of the CVTL Safety and Security Guidelines Checklist. This document, distributed to CVTL’s National and Municipal Board Members, staff, and volunteers, aims to strengthen safety awareness and standardize security practices in both peacetime and emergencies.
Following the ceremony, officials toured the various campsites where participants showcased creativity and innovation in agriculture, environmental recycling, and tourism. CVTL President Mrs. Madalena expressed gratitude to the Government of Timor-Leste, through GASC, and to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for their consistent support in advancing youth empowerment.
The camp also incorporated a strong community outreach element. On the same day, CVTL leaders and partners participated in the distribution of two waste bins in Kabasfatin Sub-Village and the construction of a latrine in Cotbouru Sub-Village, Seloi-Malere Village. These initiatives aimed to promote environmental cleanliness and improve hygiene awareness in local communities.
As part of the youth development program, a lecture session on “Vocational Training and Youth Empowerment: Future Youth Leadership in Timor-Leste” was held, featuring the Head of the Vocational Training Office (SEFOPE), Mr. Jacinto R. Dias, along with Timorese intellectuals Mr. Leovigildo da Costa Hornai and Mr. João da Silva (Choque). The session provided an opportunity for participants to exchange ideas, learn from good leadership practices, and gain motivation for their future roles as leaders in society.
Another key highlight was a joint lecture on the humanitarian work of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Delivered by Mr. João Martins Alves (ICRC) and Mr. Macario Lopes (IFRC), the session deepened participants’ understanding of humanitarian principles, International Humanitarian Law, and the role of the Red Cross network in disaster and health crisis response worldwide.
In her address, CVTL President Mrs. Madalena reiterated the organization’s commitment to building a strong generation of youth leaders capable of responding to challenges with resilience, compassion, and dedication. She emphasized that the National Youth Camp is not only a platform for training but also a celebration of unity, volunteerism, and the spirit of humanitarian service.
The CVTL National Youth Camp 2025 will continue with various training sessions, cultural exchanges, and community engagement activities, reinforcing the theme of empowerment and leadership while strengthening the capacity of young volunteers to serve as positive agents of change in Timor-Leste.
For more pictures click link bellow;
Youth volunteers from the CVTL are ready with their tents for the National Youth Camp 2025
“Empowerment and Leadership for Youth,” was officially opened
CVTL also carried out a social activity by distributing two waste bins and constructing one latrine
lecture session on Vocational Training and Youth Empowerment, Future Youth Leadership in Timor-Leste
