Report by Zevonia Vieira
The National PermaYouth Camp commenced on Monday 21October 2024 and is set to empower 800 young people from across Timor-Leste, fostering a youth-led national environmental solidarity network. In collaboration with local authorities, this initiative aims to create a strong network focused on making permaculture tools and knowledge accessible to all communities in Timor-Leste.
Regarding to the Press Release that access by Neon Metin, inform that His Excellency, President of the Republic Timor-Leste, Dr. José Ramos-Horta, along with the President of Authority Municipality, Ermera, Jose Martinho Dos Santos Soares officially opened the Camp at Fatukeru, Ermera. President Ramos-Horta spoke of the importance of youth and community in addressing environmental challenges.
‘PermaYouth prioritizes inclusivity, welcoming young women, individuals with disabilities, and those identifying as LGBTIQ+. The participatory camp, led by experts and past participants, ensures that skills acquired can be shared within home communities, paving the way for future education and employment opportunities,’ says Permatil’s Executive Director, Ego Lemos.
‘The National PermaYouth Camp represents a significant milestone in the movement towards sustainability and community empowerment in Timor-Leste. Together, we can cultivate an inclusive and healthier, more resilient future for our nation and our planet,’ added Ego Lemos.
The National PermaYouth Camp aims to foster collaboration and skill development among youth aged 17 to 35 and their community leaders. The camp offers hands-on learning in planting water systems and other permaculture techniques, leadership training, and cultural exchanges. It seeks to empower Timor-Leste’s youth with essential permaculture knowledge and the confidence to lead their communities toward a sustainable future.
Additionally, the program emphasizes the need to mobilize current leaders to ensure youth have access to quality education, skills training, and health services – creating opportunities for meaningful participation in a just society.
‘Participants gain essential knowledge and skills in permaculture and climate adaptation strategies. The PermaYouth Association, formed in 2023, will also be strengthened, fostering the next generation of environmental leaders, advocates, policymakers, teachers, and storytellers. Additionally, the PermaYouth demonstration site in Fatukeru, Ermera, will benefit from enhanced facilities and infrastructure, contributing to ecosystem restoration and agricultural improvements for the local community,’ Ego Lemos explains.
During the day, participants will engage in practical training on permaculture techniques, leadership development, and cultural exchanges. Each evening, participants will gather to share insights and experiences gained throughout the day, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the camp, before enjoying a festival of music and culture.
To date, the PermaYouth initiative has successfully mobilized over 6,000 youth through 14 regional and national camps, providing intensive five-day training in permaculture and leadership. Many of these youth leaders are now active members of the PermaYouthAssociation (Timor-Leste), playing a pivotal role in driving environmental stewardship and positive change at the community level across Timor-Leste.
‘You must first plant knowledge and practice before you plant water, a seed or a tree’.
