Dili, July 16, 2026 (Media Democracia) – Lidia Da Silva, a 26-years old young women from Viqueque Municipality, Uatucarbau Administritaive Port, Wemua Village, Komou Hamlet, currently living in Comoro Village, Moris Dame Hamlet, Dili. Continues to struggle to Make a living through a small clothing business to support her studies and help her family, even though she comes from a farming family that faces daily economic challenges.
She said that even before continuing to university, she had already started her own business selling clothes in Kampung Baru, Comoro.
“I have my own business, before continuing to Universidade Nasional Timor Loro Sa’e (UNTL), Faculty of Education and Humanities, Department of Teachers Training and Basic Education in 2020, and graduated in 2026, and now I continues with the business experience I’ve had, and I get strong support form my family , especially my older brother who helped me with $120 to continue starting this small business, to support my life, some to pay school and boarding house, and some to help meet my family’s needs.” said Lidia, in Kampung Baru, 16/07/2026
Despite facing strong competition in the clothing business, she continues to strive to support herself and her family.
She said that the biggest challenge she faces is having few buyers because most people in that area also do the same kind of business.
“The challenge I face is that sometimes from morning until night no one buys clothes. Each day I can earn $10, $20, $30 or sometimes $100, but it depends on the buyers. Sometimes in one day I don’t earn any income at all. But this small income doesn’t kill my will and hope. I continue to be patient and keep selling because necessity forces me not to stop.” said Nivia.
On this occasion, Nivia also sent a message to young people not to depend only on their parents, but to have the will and effort to fight for a better future.
“My message to young people is don’t depend only on your parents. As young people, we have to work hard and keep fighting so we can achieve the goals and success we want in life.” she concluded.
Report By: Trainee Joaninho
Photo: Trainee Delfiano