Mehi/Dreams in Dili
This video shares the story of Isabel, a former student of Pro-EMA (Empowering Program for Women and Adolescents) in Timor-Leste.
Timor-Leste, East Asia
Story by Phoebe Parsons
Published on March 2, 2024.
Reading time: 1 minutes
CW: This contains descriptions of sexual abuse that may be triggering for some individuals.
Pro-EMA (Empowering Program for Women and Adolescents) is an organisation based in Dili, Timor-Leste, providing education, shelter and support for survivors of violence and sexual abuse. Pro-EMA was established by East Timorese women in 2018 as a response to gender inequality in Timor-Leste. Individuals at Pro-EMA are offered an education in gastronomy, hospitality, cosmetology, tourism and entrepreneurship, and opportunities of employment in the Pro-EMA’s restaurant, beauty salon, café, chocolaterie, and Sunset Inn Hotel.
In 2023 I got to know the founders of Pro-EMA and witness first-hand the incredible dedication this team has in uplifting survivors and providing paths towards financial stability and community.
This video shares the story of Isabel, a former Pro-EMA student and now dear friend of mine, who entrusted me with her story in the hope to inspire other survivors of gender-based violence.
How does this story make you feel?
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