Dili, 29 May 2025 – CARE is proud to welcome Jose Luis de Oliveira, Director of Asia Justice and Rights (AJAR), as a guest speaker to the upcoming edition of the Lafaek youth journalist activity.
A renowned advocate for human rights, justice, and reconciliation, Jose Luis de Oliveira is widely respected for his leadership and grassroots work in Timor-Leste. His efforts include the establishment of the School for Activists for Human Rights and Social Justice, which educates young Timorese about the nation’s history through the lens of survivors and marginalised communities.
Jose is also a prominent figure in advancing gender equality and has played a crucial role in supporting survivors of sexual violence during the conflict from 1975 to 1999. As a founding member of two leading rights-based civil society organisations, such as HAK Association and FOKUPERS, Jose has been instrumental in promoting justice and gender equality at both local and national levels.
Currently serving as the Director of AJAR, his work focuses on transitional justice, reparations, and the empowerment of survivors of past human rights abuses.
As a key initiative that amplifies youth voices for social change, the Lafaek Project gives young journalists and its readers an opportunity to learn from Jose’s decades of experience and unwavering commitment to justice.
This engagement is part of CARE’s commitment to promote the role of men and boys in challenging harmful gender norms and addressing gender inequality. As a powerful male ally and human rights defender, Jose’s involvement will aim to inspire the next generation of young men to take meaningful action in their communities.
CARE sincerely appreciates Jose Luis de Oliveira’s collaboration with the Lafaek Project and applauds his lifelong dedication to human rights and gender equality in Timor-Leste.
The Lafaek Project is funded by the New Zealand Government, with strong partnership with the Ministry of Education in Timor-Leste.
