Friends of Soibada recognised

The charity has been recognised with the Medal of the Order of Timor-Leste for its support work

For more than 15 years, a local Northern Beaches organisation founded by Tamara Sloper Harding has been providing support to the people of Soibada, a small region in Timor-Leste. Now the charity, Friends of Soibada, has been recognised for their efforts by the President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, who awarded the Medal of the Order of Timor-Leste in recognition of its longstanding service to the people of the region.

Friends of Soibada was founded in 2009 by Tamara, a veteran of the INTERFET peacekeeping mission. Ever since, the volunteer-led charity has been working to provide support through local initiatives in education, healthcare, infrastructure, women’s empowerment, and cultural exchange – ensuring that every project is community-driven and sustainable. The organisation is built on the values of friendship, solidarity, and community-to-community partnership.

Some of the projects the group has undertaken include a dental program imparting education on the importance of teeth care. They have also delivered medical supplies and health promotion initiatives, increasing education amongst the community. Local schools in Siobada are supported by the charity, who pay the wages of teachers through sponsorships.

The Medal of the Order of Timor-Leste is one of the nation’s highest civilian honours. It acknowledges individuals and organisations whose contributions have strengthened the wellbeing, growth, and solidarity of Timor-Leste.

The charity creates community-driven, sustainable projects

“This award belongs not only to our volunteers and supporters in Australia, but also to the resilient people of Soibada who inspire us every day,” Tamara says. “It symbolises the deep friendship between our communities and demonstrates what can be achieved when people work together with respect and cooperation.”

Past recipients of the medal include international figures, aid organisations, and Timorese citizens recognised for exceptional contributions to society.

The recognition of Friends of Soibada highlights the enduring value of grassroots partnerships in strengthening the relationship between Australia and Timor-Leste, Tamara says, adding it’s an encouragement to continue building opportunities that support the dignity, resilience, and wellbeing of the people of Soibada and the wider Timorese community.

For more information, visit friendsofsoibada.com