Dili, Timor-Leste, November 14, 2025 —Women entrepreneurs and business leaders who are creating jobs and shaping Timor-Leste’s future were celebrated tonight as the winners of the 2025 Women in Business Awards were announced. Now in its second year, the Awards feature women whose businesses and leadership deliver both economic and social value, at a time when expanding opportunities is central to the country’s growth.
The Awards are hosted by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group focusing on the private sector, and the Associação Empresarial das Mulheres de Timor-Leste (Timor-Leste Business Women Association—AEMTL). They are part of the Timor-Leste Financial Sector Skills Program, a joint initiative of IFC and Banco Central de Timor-Leste, which aims to foster broader financial inclusion through the development of the financial sector in Timor-Leste through targeted skills initiatives. Both these initiatives are supported by the governments of Australia and New Zealand.
Held under the patronage of His Excellency President José Ramos-Horta, President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, the ceremony honored nine winners across multiple categories, representing diverse sectors from retail and agriculture to hospitality and finance. This year, close to 100 women from across the country submitted nominations, reflecting strong interest and participation.
“Women’s economic empowerment is not a single effort; it requires collaboration from all parts of society to expand women’s opportunities and influence,” said President José Ramos-Horta, who is also a Nobel Peace Laureate. “Each story shared tonight shows that investing in women’s entrepreneurship and leadership delivers far-reaching benefits for families, communities, and the economy.”
Women-led businesses in Timor-Leste are a key source of employment and local economic activity. The Awards highlight their accomplishments while fostering visibility, connections, and access to resources that can support growth. By celebrating diverse role models—from emerging entrepreneurs to established business leaders and organizations—the Awards aim to showcase the many pathways for women to succeed and inspire others to lead and grow businesses across the country.
“What we see tonight is the strength that comes from women supporting women,” said Hergui Luina Fernandes Alves, President of AEMTL. “Every woman in this room, whether she won or not, is helping to build stronger businesses today and inspiring the next generation of leaders in Timor-Leste.”
“It was great to see so many strong candidates for this year’s awards. Each of the winners is outstanding in their own way and together they are a powerful force for change,” said David Freedman, World Bank Group Resident Representative for Timor-Leste. “Empowering women to take on leadership roles in business and entrepreneurship will help Timor-Leste develop a more dynamic private sector and a more prosperous and inclusive society.”
Profiles of the 2025 winners are included in the annex to this press release. Further details about the Awards are available on the AEMTL website: https://aemtl.org/women-in-business-awards/
About IFC
IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.
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About AEMTL
AEMTL was started by 43 female entrepreneurs on April 26, 2008, with the aim of providing opportunities and encouraging Timorese entrepreneurs to gain confidence and motivation to contribute to the nation's development. Serving as an umbrella for other businesses in various sectors like Tourism, Commerce, Importation, Civil Construction, and more, AEMTL aims to support Timorese entrepreneurs in facing challenges and competing in Timor-Leste's business landscape, with the aspiration to contribute to the economic development of the country. The spirit of the 43 Timorese entrepreneurs believes in finding ways to help women who struggle and wish to become strong partners for their families and the government of Timor-Leste. AEMTL's main objective is to promote and encourage Timorese women to be brave and confident in their endeavors. Through training programs and collaborations with international institutions and the government, AEMTL enhances entrepreneurial capacities by sharing information and knowledge on business systems and mechanisms.
For more information, visit https://aemtl.tl/.
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