A safe and vibrant space for the young people of Suai — rooted in justice, diversity and inclusion.
Our Story
Born from community spirit
Centro Juventude Covalima (CJC) was founded to create a safe and vibrant space for young people in Suai, Timor-Leste.
Born from community spirit and solidarity, CJC is a hub where youth can learn, share and lead initiatives that strengthen local identity and build sustainable futures.
Our motto
“Hari'i kapasidade: Hamoris ideias no Iniciativa, Haburas kreativa, hodi hametin unidade iha transformasaun social ba dezenvolvimentu.”
Building capacity: bringing ideas and initiatives to life, nurturing creativity, and strengthening unity in social transformation for development.
Suai • Covalima
Youth HubCentro Juventude Covalima
Our Vision
A generation of empowered youth who honor their heritage while shaping solutions for today's challenges.
CJC stands for justice, diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every voice — especially those of Indigenous and marginalized communities — is heard and respected.
Core Principles
Indigenous rights
FPIC
Food sovereignty
Youth leadership
Justice
Diversity
Inclusion
Our Mission
Five commitments
01
Empower Youth
Through leadership training, public speaking and creative enterprise.
02
Protect Indigenous Rights
By revitalizing traditions like Tara Bandu and advocating for Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).
03
Promote Food Sovereignty
By strengthening sistema fini lokál (local seed systems) and supporting sustainable agriculture.
04
Advance Climate Resilience
Through renewable energy projects and participation in regional climate dialogues.
05
Build Community Partnerships
With local, national and international organizations to amplify youth voices.
Legal Status
Constitution & By-laws
CJC ConstitutionAvailable on request
By-lawsAvailable on request
Our Team
Powered by the people
CJC is led by passionate youth advocates, community organizers and volunteers who believe in grassroots change. Together, we collaborate with schools, NGOs and regional networks to bring opportunities and resources to Covalima's young people.
Youth Advocates
Young leaders who speak up for their communities, locally and regionally.
Community Organizers
The people who bring villages, elders and schools together around shared goals.
Volunteers
The energy behind every festival, workshop and campaign.
