This quarter is an opportunity to celebrate the old and new: an invitation to connect with the Palms family – including some awardees with very long service indeed – is coming up with our Solidarity Awards Luncheon on 21 September; our AGM on 10 October will be the opportunity to refresh the organisation as we prepare to extend ourselves beyond our traditional base; and new placements are filled as others draw to a close. In particular, we share snippets of feedback from our partners which we have collected in our revamped Monitoring and Evaluation process, both from Timor Leste, and both of whom we will visit during our Encounter Tour to Timor Leste October 20-31. Spread the word! It’s the last chance to meet them on placement.
Director’s Reflection
Authentic Connection in a Polarised World
As we wend our way towards our Solidarity Awards Luncheon and our AGM, it is occasion to contemplate the legacy of inspiration and commitment that has built and nurtured Palms… Read more here.
Timor Leste Encounter Tour: 20-31 October 2024
Last Opportunity for 2024
Join our small group Encounter tour to Timor-Leste from October 20-31, 2024. You will engage directly with the people and projects that are making a positive difference within their communities as well as a high chance of observing the migration of the blue pygmy whales as they pass very close to the coastline at Dili.
2024 Solidarity Awards & Lunch
Saturday 21st September 12noon – 3pm
Join us in celebrating Palms’ approach of mutual exchange for sustainable international development and intercultural connection, and Roger O’Halloran and other key individuals and organisations who have contributed toward this. With Guest Speaker (Waskam) Emelda Davis, Chairwoman of the Australian South Sea Islanders Port Jackson. Please share the downloadable flyer and invitation.
Frontline Inspiration
From our Partner in Balibo, Timor Leste
“Sister Anjelica Rankin has been mentoring me since 2022. Together we have been giving English classes to the primary school children. She has been training me so that I can do these classes by myself. Sister Anjelica has also been helping me and Mestra Elen do our TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. This is important because I can teach English classes when she leaves. I am happy that sister Anjelica has helped me to get my Days for Girls International Ambassador Certificate. The training was in English and she mentored me. Now I can train other women in my community to become an ambassador.”
Rofina Aifunan (right in photo with Elen left & Anjelica in the middle)
Balibo Community Life Centre, Timor Leste
From our Partner in Venilale, Timor Leste
I really appreciate having you here at the school Carolyn. Your contributions to our team are immeasurable….You’ve established a positive classroom atmosphere…the students seem enthusiastic to learn even though speaking is difficult. You’re tutoring has motivated me individually, teaching me helpful classroom strategies….Your passion for teaching is helpful, motivating students to grow well to their own ability.
Summary of comments by Prof. Armandina Do Carmo
(left in photo with Prof. Agueda Sarmento on the right & Carolyn in the middle)
The Instituto Filhas de Maria Auxiliadora, Timor Leste
Partner Profile
Kadasig Aid and Development
Kadasig Aid and Development is a dedicated voluntary group based in Australia, committed to enhancing the lives of children and families in the Philippines through sponsorship and livelihood programs. Their mission focuses on fostering sustainable community development and providing essential support to those in need. To learn more, watch this informative video.
Kadasig Aid and Development has requested a qualified nurse to work in the communities of the Province of Barili and Cebu City. The nurse will play a crucial role in improving community health education programs and delivering first aid training. These initiatives aim to promote illness prevention, reduce the spread of disease through basic health and sanitation awareness, enhance sexual health knowledge, and empower individuals with first aid skills.
Palms Australia is pleased to announce that we have identified a volunteer for this role. Annie Anthony will begin her placement in the Philippines in the first half of 2025, bringing her expertise and compassion to these communities.
Spotlight on Opportunities
See many other requests here or contact Palms about any currently being drafted
(02 9560 5333 or [email protected])
This short placement video and these personal testimonies will inspire you to REACH BEYOND.
Celebrating 10 years of commitment
Thank you Kevin
Earlier this month, our team came together to celebrate the wonderful Kevin Wilson, our Accounts Officer, for his 10year anniversary on Palms Staff. As well as overseeing the accounts Kevin graciously helps with any IT issues (there’s often something not working quite right) and with recruitment through Catholic networks. Kevin’s journey as a Palms participant in Papua New Guinea (2009-2010) and Timor-Leste (2012-2013) to a Palms staff member demonstrates an invaluable commitment to the Palms’ mission and vision. For this, we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Kevin.
Photo L to R: Soraya, Emily, Kevin, Cassandra & Evelyn
Support Base
Our members are essential
Palms growth depends on a diversity of perspectives. With our AGM coming up on October 10, help us achieve our renewed mission by renewing your membership or becoming a new member today.
Positions Vacant
Marketing and Fundraising Coordinator – 2 days pw
We’re looking for an experienced marketing professional to devise and implement a cost effective and focussed marketing campaign promoting our international volunteering opportunities and our small ethical tourism and training operation. We also require expert guidance on a new strategy for fundraising for our organisation. More information here.
Administrative Support Officer: Volunteer Recruitment and Tours – 1 day pw
We’re looking for a well organised person with excellent communication skills, including cross culturally, to assist with the administration of our international volunteering promotional campaign, to administer an annual international ethical tour and to support the promotion of our community education activities. More information here.
Other News
Unpacking the evidence on social protection in the Pacific and Timor-Leste
Devpolicy Blog by Kate Lanyon, Matthew Allen and Ginevra Jarmaine. Read here…
Women’s political representation in Solon Islands
Devpolicy Blog by Kerryn Baker. Read here…