On 13 November we were honoured to receive a visit from the President of Timor-Leste, Dr Jose Ramos-Horta. Friday the 13th may be known ‘Black Friday’, but for us at HIAM-Health, it was ‘Lucky Friday’.
Due to the President’s busy schedule, we were expecting only a short visit of half an hour or so. After a tour of the Centre and the home kitchen garden, Rosaria invited Dr Ramos-Horta to stay for a while to talk with us about our work. You can imagine how delighted we were when he accepted! Most of the HIAM staff had an opportunity to speak with the President. It was great to see the looks on their faces. They were so thrilled to be able to meet him in an informal manner.
The President then accepted our invitation to stay for coffee. This provided the perfect opportunity for Rosaria and I to discuss our hopes and dreams for healthy children, and some of the challenges we face. The President took a keen interest in what we were saying and has promised to help smooth the way.
A few days after his visit we received a letter of support from the President, and it goes without saying that we are over the moon with his response.
Hi Jill,
That’s great news about the visit, I know that’s very significant for support. Loved seeing all the photos too.
Great article in the West Australian too, many of my friends pointed it out to me!
All the best
Amy