Leadership and Future: Minister Agio Pereira Inspires Young People from the 'Future Leader for ASEAN' Program
On 25th July 2024, the Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Agio Pereira, attended a working lunch with young participants of the "Futuru Lider ba ASEAN" (Future Leaders of ASEAN) programme, led by the Deputy Minister for ASEAN Affairs, Milena Maria da Costa Rangel. The event took place at Hotel Timor in Díli and focused primarily on the importance of leadership and the role of youth in the future of Timor-Leste and ASEAN.
During the meeting, Agio Pereira addressed several key aspects of leadership. The Minister defined leadership as the ability to inspire and guide others, promoting collaboration and growth. He emphasised that a true leader should be a source of inspiration and support, not just someone who makes decisions. Agio Pereira highlighted the importance of ethics and integrity in leadership, stating that a leader's legitimacy is built on trust and respect. 
The Minister stressed the need for young leaders to be involved in developing innovative solutions to ASEAN's regional challenges. He encouraged the participants to apply leadership principles such as adaptability, empathy, integrity, and vision in their daily actions.
Agio Pereira cited figures such as Xanana Gusmão, highlighting his resilience and commitment in his leadership and in the fight for Timor-Leste's independence, and Lee Kuan Yew, who transformed Singapore through pragmatic policies and a strategic vision. The Minister concluded by encouraging the young people to use leadership concepts to promote positive changes in their communities, preparing themselves to contribute actively to the regional ASEAN scene. 
The "Futuru Lider ba ASEAN" programme is an initiative of the Government of Timor-Leste, launched in April 2024, aimed at preparing young Timorese leaders to play important roles in national development and regional integration within ASEAN. This programme seeks to develop the leadership capacities of the participants and increase knowledge about ASEAN, promoting a greater understanding and contribution to Timor-Leste's development agenda.
