Dili, November 14 (AseanAll) — Timor-Leste President and Nobel Peace Laureate, J. Ramos-Horta opened the Plants, Food, and Art Festival themed “Go Green, Buy Local” – a three-day celebration of Timorese women’s entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability, held at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace from November 14-16, 2024.
The festival organized by the Unit of Economic Empowerment of Women (EEW), features local women vendors displaying artisanal products, plants, and traditional cuisine.
The objectives of the festival are to increase visibility for women entrepreneurs. Create opportunities for vendor-customer engagement. Help women establish their business brands. Recognize and celebrate Timorese women’s achievements. Promote environmental sustainability and recycling awareness
The event commenced with a special food tasting experience by the Ai-Han Timor Street Food vendors group, offering traditional Timorese cuisine to distinguished guests, including government representatives, development partners, and diplomatic corps members.
Highlights of the three-day festival include: Plant and art exhibitions featuring local women entrepreneurs. Competition for best creative displays and stall presentations. Cultural exchange opportunities with participating embassies. Interactive activities including prize draws and raffles. Sustainable business practices showcase. Local food and beverage vendors
“The strength of our nation lies in the innovation and determination of our women entrepreneurs, and their commitment to sustainable business practices,” said President Ramos-Horta. “This festival represents a unique opportunity to showcase the incredible talents of our local women business owners while promoting environmental consciousness. By bringing together our community’s creative forces with environmental advocates, we are building a more sustainable and equitable future for Timor-Leste.”
This initiative aligns with the President’s commitment to supporting women’s economic empowerment while promoting environmental sustainability and cultural preservation.
