2 June 2026  as part of the World Student Christian Federation Asia-Pacific (WSCF-AP) Movement Building initiative, Program Secretary and Movement Building Coordinator Anastasia Hilda facilitated an online meeting with representatives of SCM Timor-Leste. The Movement Building process seeks to accompany Student Christian Movements through regular dialogue, strengthening organizational development, nurturing young leadership, and deepening regional solidarity rooted in faith and justice.

The meeting brought together Jose Pinto and other members of SCM Timor-Leste, including new members Donny, Joel, and Yubal, who shared updates on the movement’s ongoing growth and ministry.

One of the highlights was the recent Bible Study gathering facilitated by Joel Cali Mau Tavares (ISC, Educação) at the CFT-IPTL Classroom. The activity welcomed participants from several higher education institutions, including UNTL, ICS, ISC, IOB, and UCT, reflecting the expanding diversity and reach of SCM Timor-Leste among university students across the country. The increasing participation from different campuses demonstrates the movement’s continued efforts to build an inclusive and vibrant ecumenical student community.

Beyond Bible study, SCM Timor-Leste has continued to invest in holistic leadership formation through educational and social engagement activities. The movement recently organized a workshop titled “Life Transformation Through Mindset and Personal Growth,” facilitated by Leonardo Gamboa Marçal, an experienced youth development and organizational trainer. The workshop encouraged students to cultivate a growth mindset, strengthen self-confidence, and embrace continuous learning as they prepare to face future challenges. By emphasizing resilience, perseverance, and personal transformation, the workshop equipped participants to become compassionate and responsible leaders in their communities.

In response to pressing social realities, SCM Timor-Leste also hosted a youth discussion on “The Dynamics of Increasing Violence in Society: A Critical Reflection on the Challenges Faced by the Younger Generation.” Led by student facilitator Feviana Teti B. Ferdinan, the discussion invited participants to critically examine the root causes of violence and the role of young people in promoting peace. Grounded in biblical reflection, the session emphasized that addressing violence requires collective responsibility from families, educational institutions, churches, government, and young people themselves, while encouraging participants to embody Christ’s values of love, peace, and justice in their daily lives.

SCM Timor-Leste also shared its commitment to strengthening intergenerational relationships by maintaining active communication and collaboration with senior friends. In celebration of Timor-Leste’s Independence Day on 20 May, commemorating the country’s independence from 2002 to 2026, the movement organized a meaningful discussion with senior church leader Rev. Levi Vas Conselos. The gathering created space for dialogue between generations, allowing members to reflect on the nation’s journey while drawing inspiration from experienced ecumenical leaders.

Beyond campus activities, SCM Timor-Leste reaffirmed its commitment to faith expressed through social engagement. Members shared their concern over challenges affecting communities, including restrictions on civic space, the treatment of student demonstrations, and issues related to forced evictions experienced by vulnerable communities. Guided by the values of the Student Christian Movement, the organization continues to stand in solidarity with those whose dignity and human rights are threatened, advocating for justice, peace, human rights, and respect for human dignity through peaceful and prophetic witness.

The discussion also highlighted SCM Timor-Leste’s growing relationship with local church bodies. Regular activities held at the Synod Complex reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with local church synods and ecumenical partners, reinforcing the movement’s place within Timor-Leste’s wider ecumenical community.

The meeting concluded by exploring opportunities for deeper engagement in WSCF Asia-Pacific programs and regional initiatives. SCM Timor-Leste reaffirmed its commitment to actively participate in the life of the Federation while continuing to embody WSCF’s core values of faith and justice in its ministries, leadership development, and public witness.

Through conversations such as these, WSCF Asia-Pacific continues to accompany Student Christian Movements across the region, fostering stronger organizations, empowering young leaders, and building a vibrant ecumenical movement that responds faithfully to the realities faced by students and communities today.