Dili, September 3, 2025 (Média Democracia) – Women leaders and potential female figures held a press conference to evaluate each political party and the leaders in power who have not demonstrated the ideal leadership qualities they learned during a training session. They emphasized the importance of integrating values such as integrity, honesty, humility, and empathy for the people as essential elements to transform society into a prosperous and stable state in the future. This press release was accessed by Média Democracia from JSMP’s page this Tuesday.
The Executive Director of JSMP, Ana Paula Marçal, explained that this evaluation was delivered by participants during the training session on the topic “Transformative Leadership and Democracy”, which was held on August 28, 2025, at the Prospek NGO Hall, Lautem Municipality.
“JSMP believes that active participation of women at different levels in the national development process is extremely important. Therefore, JSMP is committed to continuing to promote and expand training activities for potential female cadres, including those from political parties, to increase knowledge and leadership qualities at various levels and sectors so they can effectively contribute to national development,” said Executive Director Ana Paula Marçal.
She added that the training aimed to enhance the knowledge and capacity of potential women leaders in relation to transformative leadership and democracy. First, to ensure active participation of women at all levels with quality representation. Second, to ensure that when given the opportunity to assume public office, they can perform their roles professionally, with integrity and adequate knowledge, in order to contribute positively to society.
“The training focused on transformative leadership, discussing relevant issues about the concept of transformative leadership, including the general concept of leadership, leadership according to expert ideas and teachings, the difference between a leader, manager, chief, and boss, types of leadership, and leadership qualities that integrate values such as integrity, honesty, responsibility (accountability), and anti-corruption as key elements in leadership concepts in today’s era,” explained the Executive Director.
She further stated that all the training materials were compiled into a manual distributed to participants and financed through civil society funds managed by the Civil Society Support Office (GASC).
“During the session, participants expressed their joy at having space and opportunity to learn about leadership issues, concepts, and key elements that leaders must have to perform effectively, adapt, and respond to the complexity and challenges of today’s world,” said the Executive Director.
She emphasized that this training is highly relevant for current and future skills development. Participants recommended that JSMP organize such training sessions regularly, as the platform allows them to update and deepen their knowledge.
“Additionally, it promoted dialogue and productive communication among women’s party groups and civil society organizations, enabling them to learn together, share experiences and perspectives, voice concerns, and manage challenges within their respective organizations,” informed Ana Paula Marçal.
She also highlighted that women leaders and potential female figures in Lautem Municipality appealed to members of the National Parliament (PN) to reduce privileges and redirect sufficient financial resources to rural women in order to strengthen family economies at the grassroots level. They also urged MPs and government members to limit unnecessary trips abroad with large delegations, so that state resources can circulate within the country, especially in communities.
In detail, the training had a total of 17 participants out of the initial plan of 20, coming from political parties with parliamentary seats and civil society organizations: CNRT (5), Fretilin (5), PD (4), and civil society representatives (3). Although PLP and KHUNTO initially agreed to participate and delegate their members, they were unable to attend on the day of the training.
Reporter: Nelfiano
Photo: JSMP Media