Jesuit Social Service (JSS) is proud to highlight the impactful work of Elsa Pinto, who has been a dedicated Jesuit collaborator for the past three years. Through the Food Security Program, Elsa works hand-in-hand with local communities to bring meaningful, lasting change.
Elsa’s work reaches across communities in Railaco, three schools and into two villages in Aileu. In her role as Food Security Program Manager, she partners closely with Project Officer Maun Cornelio de Deus. Together, they’ve helped improve the lives of more than a thousand family members.
“Today, Food Security program has reached around 1,219 family members.” She states.
What sets Elsa’s work apart is her deep connection to the people she serves.
“I value the connection I have with our communities,” she says. “The flexibility I have at JSS allows room for trial and error, learning and growth. I feel supported, valued, and heard.”
One of the most powerful outcomes of the program is the growing sense of ownership within the communities.
“Households and families are working together,” Elsa observes. “We, Timorese, are united by our culture and way of life — from one family to another.”
Elsa has also witnessed how even small changes can spark a wider movement.
“When one community sees a small impact, the next reaches out, eager to learn and collaborate. I think that is the best part I now consider as a positive impact.”
Looking ahead, Elsa dreams of empowered communities capable of leading their own development.
“One day — maybe still far away — this is my hope to hear a community say, “Please leave and go to another community. We don’t need JSS anymore — we can do this on our own.’ That’s my greatest hope.”
As she continued to explain,“For the community I collaborate with, the hope is that they will continue working together, using the knowledge, experience, and networks they’ve gained.”
Elsa’s dedication reflects the heart of JSS’s mission: to serve with joy to those most in need and support communities in discovering their own strength. Her work in the Food Security Program is a testament to how service, compassion, and collaboration can transform lives.
Written by: Iriana Soares, ETR Communications Officer
📎 Learn more about the Food Security Program [click here]