Dili, July 23, 2026(Media Democracia) – Young woman named Lurdes Tavares Soares, 22 years old, from Ermera Municipality, Atsabe Administrative Post, Lemialeten Village, Orbete Hamlet, currently living in Bairro Pite Village, Baileste Hamlet, runs a small business as an important source of family income. Her effort helps support household needs and also continues to support her studies. Lurdes is the daughter of Rosita Soares, a housewife, and Egedio Tavares, a farmer.
According to businesswoman Lurdes Tavares Soares, she explained how she manages her time between school and running a small business selling tahu, tempeh, tomatoes and other food items at Manleuana Market to meet daily needs, support her family and pay for her studies.
“I study at the Institute of Health Sciences (ISC), Faculty of Health, Midwifery Department, 6th Semester. Every day, after I finish all my classes, I go home and immediately continue selling tempeh, tahu, tomatoes and other goods. The hours that I sell are from 8:00 AM until 9:00 PM, but during school hours I attend class. From this small business, often I can earn up to US$200 in one day, and at minimum US$50. Each month, the income is around US$700. Some of that money I use to buy more goods to sell again and some I keep in savings at home.” said Lurdes at Manleuana Market (21/07/2026).
She further stated that the income from this business really helps the economy, in terms of supporting her family and continuing her studies.
“The money that I earn every day from selling tempeh and tahu is what I use to pay for school, transportation, photocopy and study materials. I am very happy because this small business has saved my studies.” she said.
Despite that, Lurdes also reported that while running her business she faces some challenges, especially threats and obstacles from some members of the Secretariat of State for Toponymy and Urban Organization (SEATOU) team.
“While I do business in this place, many times I have received threats from the SEATOU team. Sometimes they come and smash our business goods.” said Lurdes.
At the end of the interview, Lurdes gave a message to young women and men to use their time well and seek productive activities that can bring benefits for life in the future.
Report By: Trainee Delfiano
Photo: Trainee Joaninho