IFC, AEMTL Host Timor-Leste’s First Women in Business Awards

IFC and the Associação Empresarial das Mulheres de Timor-Leste (Timor-Leste Business Women Association—AEMTL) have announced the winners of the first Women in Business Awards in Timor-Leste, celebrating the achievements of women in business and finance in the country.

These awards highlight the importance of promoting women’s leadership and recognizing their contributions to the private sector in Timor-Leste. They showcase women's successes and initiatives in business and finance, creating role models to inspire a new generation of women entrepreneurs and leaders.

“Empowering women in business is not just a matter of fairness, but it is also essential for the economic and social development of our country,” said President of the Republic of Timor-Leste José Ramos-Horta, who is also a patron of the awards. “These awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of Timorese women and serve as a powerful reminder that women’s increased economic participation and leadership benefits everyone.”

The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and representatives from international organizations. The recognition of these outstanding women not only highlights their individual achievements but also emphasizes the collective progress being made towards gender equality in Timor-Leste.

“Women’s economic empowerment is not a single effort; it requires the involvement of everyone to increase women’s economic power and influence in the economy,” said Hergui Luina Fernandes Alves, President of AEMTL.  “It is inspiring to see empowered women supporting others, creating a ripple effect that leads to a better life for society. Rewarding women in business is a recognition of their efforts and achievements.”

“IFC is committed to empowering women and helping overcome barriers to success,” said David Freedman, IFC’s Resident Representative for Timor-Leste. “Accelerating progress in gender equality is critical for Timor-Leste's development so we are proud to showcase outstanding achievements through the country’s first Women in Business Awards.”

The awards recognized winners across ten categories (see Annex 1), were launched as part of IFC’s Timor-Leste Financial Sector Skills Program. The program, delivered in partnership with Banco Central de Timor-Leste and supported by the governments of Australia and New Zealand, aims to foster broader financial inclusion through the development of the financial sector in Timor-Leste through targeting skills initiatives.

“Australia is proud to support these Awards, and the recognition they bring to the work taking place to empower women and contribute to private sector growth,” said Caitlin Wilson, the Ambassador of Australia to Timor-Leste. “Business owners provide essential services to their communities and provide employment and skills development opportunities for others. We hope these Awards will inspire young Timorese, especially women and girls, to consider careers in business and entrepreneurship.”

“Recognizing the achievements of women in business is essential to fostering a more equitable and prosperous society,” said Helen Tunnah, the Ambassador of New Zealand to Timor-Leste. “These awards not only celebrate individual successes but also inspire future generations of women leaders to succeed.”