Melodies of change

In the vibrant landscape of Dili, Timor-Leste, the impact of your generosity shines brightly, touching the lives of hundreds of students like Joana. With support from our Australian Jesuit Mission family, the Jesuit-run secondary school, Colégio de Santo Inácio de Loiola (Loyola College), provides quality education to over 830 students from rural Timor-Leste, forming the nation's future leaders.

The multi-purpose extension hall at Loyola College is a space where talents are nurtured and dreams take flight, bringing in a new era of possibilities for Timor's youth. The hall now includes a permanent stage, music and drama rooms, and storage for sports and musical equipment.

For students like Joana, the impact is profound; they now have a sanctuary to explore their passion for music and creative arts.

"Before, we could only learn about musical theory, but now we can practise with instruments,” said Joana.

"The extended hall is amazing; it can accommodate 40 or more students to play instruments like guitars and flutes.”

The hall is a treasure trove of musical delights, boasting 40 classical guitars, 40 flutes, a drum set, and even a few electric guitars. While there's only one piano keyboard at present, the possibilities are endless.

"We are not experts yet, but we're learning together, and it's much easier in a big space like this.”

Here, education isn't just a privilege; it's a transformative force, nurturing young minds and shaping futures.

At Loyola College, students are encouraged to study well and take up extra-curricular activities including music, sport, dance and the arts. They are supported to succeed with counselling and educated following the rich tradition of Ignatian spirituality and formation.

The President of Timor-Leste recognised the excellence of the standard of education at the school by awarding the College with the ‘Medal of Merit of the Order of Timor-Leste’ in 2023.

Thanks to your compassionate support, Loyola College continues to be a beacon of hope, where education transcends boundaries, and dreams know no limits. As Joana and her friends embark on their educational journey, the future is bright, echoing a symphony of positive change.