Staff at Australian Marist Solidairity (AMS) were excited to host the first Virtual Program Visit for 2026 on Wednesday 18 March.
Supporters and friends were treated to presentations from Sr Josephine Moses, from the Anti-Trafficking Sewing Project in Myanmar, and a team of academic researchers from Australian Catholic University, sharing news on their research project for young people in Baucau, Timor-Leste.
Introducing Myanmar – Anti‑Trafficking Sewing Project: Sr Josephine
Human trafficking remains a serious challenge in Myanmar, where poverty, conflict and limited access to education leave many women and girls vulnerable to exploitation. Hundreds of cases are reported each year, with women and children making up a significant proportion of victims, often trafficked for forced labour, prostitution or marriage across borders. The Anti‑Trafficking Sewing Project responds by offering practical skills training, safe support networks and pathways to sustainable livelihoods. Through sewing and small‑business skills, participants gain confidence, independence and tools to build secure futures for themselves and their families.
AMS Youth Development Project, in Baucau, Timor‑Leste: Associate Professor Mellita Jones OAM, Associate Professor Paul Taylor, and Dr Benedicta Rousseau
Australian Catholic University researchers are working alongside young people and service providers in the Diocese of Baucau, Timor‑Leste, to better understand the realities young people face as they move into adulthood. This research centres on listening directly to youth voices to capture a detailed picture of local needs, strengths and challenges.
“It is about engaging directly with young people and the services that support them, so their stories can be heard”
With limited access to education, employment and youth‑focused services, many young people are at risk of disengagement. By identifying community resources and areas of need, the project aims to provide AMS with knowledge and tools for strategic decisions, so they can develop needs-based, focused youth projects in Baucau Diocese.
Please contact ams@marists.org.au for more information on future Project Visits, or to sign up for the latest news.
Tracey Doublet
Acting Communications Officer
Australian Marist Solidarity