About

Benvindu!

Welcome to my Blog coming to you all the way from sleepy Lospalos in Timor-Letse. This is a space where I’ll share info about my work with the Cooperative for Tais, Culture and Sustainable Development (CTKDS).

CTKDS members, Coordinator and Me.

CTKDS is a Cooperative run by women for women living in on the eastern tip of Timor-Leste. Together we have 81 members who come from three women’s groups; two in the sub-district of Iliomar and one in Lospalos town.

Elsa De Oliveira, CTKDS Coordinator

I work closely with our Coordinator Elsa De Oliveira; an incredible, smart, motivated and committed woman. Elsa’s knowledge of local capacity, culture and process mediates a sound approach to supporting the women.

CTKDS is unique, drawing on the positive aspects of Timorese culture, cooperative values and commercial acumen to foster long-term sustainability. We take a holistic approach to ensure that the organisation supports a range of womens’ needs. Programs span complimentary health and nutrition, education, tourism, income generation and micro finance.

Our goal is to create positive, lasting change for women and their families through innovative programs and cooperative development. We work with Australian NGO – East Timor Women Australia – towards meaningful, sustainable livelihoods, food security, improved health and education. This intimate relationship is a major strength. Our partnerships and programs work in unison to build and sustain a diverse local economy for member groups in disadvantaged communities in Lautem.