In the village of Railaco, a small formation program is quietly becoming a space of hope and accompaniment for young people who once thought their education journey had come to an end. Through English, computer and public speaking courses organized by the Railaco Parish Jesuit community and led by Fr Domingos Moreira, SJ, young people are not only learning practical skills, but also growing in confidence and hope for the future.
Among them are Manuela and João, two young people with different stories, yet united by the same desire: to continue moving forward despite the uncertainties and limitations they once faced.
For Manuela, the journey has not been easy. Originally from Ponilala, she once studied Business and Administration in Vietnam from 2018 to 2022. However, financial difficulties and documentation issues prevented her from continuing her studies.
Returning home brought uncertainty about what would come next. In 2024, she heard about the formation course in Railaco through local leaders in Gleno, Ermera. Encouraged by her family, she decided to take the opportunity and join the course.
“At the beginning, everything felt difficult”, she shared. “It was not easy to understand the lessons and adapt to the learning environment”. Over time, however, she began to feel more comfortable. Little by little, the classes helped her regain confidence in herself and in her abilities. Today, Manuela attends English, computer and public speaking classes as part of her daily routine. She has appreciated especially that the English lessons begin from the most basic level, making learning more accessible for everyone.
Her dream now is simple but meaningful: to complete the course, receive her certificate and eventually find work either in Gleno or in Dili.
João’s story reflects a similar transformation. Before joining the program, he was already active in his Parish community in Railaco as a chapel secretary and scout leader. Yet despite his involvement, he described himself as someone who was quiet and not very confident.
Encouraged by Fr. Morreira, João eventually decided to continue his educational journey through the formation program.
“Now I feel more confident speaking in front of people”, he explained. For him, the program has become more than a place to study. Through daily interaction, practical learning, and accompaniment, he discovered new confidence and skills that now help him in his everyday life.
João now dreams of continuing his studies at university, especially in the field of Education with a focus in English. He hopes that one day the knowledge and formation he receives today will allow him to serve and accompany others through education.
The formation program combines practical and personal development. The weekly activities run from Monday to Friday. Public speaking sessions are held almost every day, while Thursdays are dedicated to Lectio Divina and spiritual formation. Computer and English lessons continue throughout the week with different practical focusses. The courses currently offered vary in duration: three months, six months and one year.
Students come from different places and experiences, yet together they walk the same journey of learning, reflection and mutual support. The course remains open to everyone regardless of age or background, reflecting the Jesuit mission of creating opportunities for those who seek to continue growing and learning.
For both Manuela and João, one important aspect of the experience has been realizing that education can still continue despite past setbacks. Their stories remind us that transformation often begins in simple and quiet ways – through accompaniment, opportunities to learn, shared community life and people who continue to believe in the God-given talents each of us has received.
Written by:
Graxieta L. Ximemnes, ETR Volunteer