It was an honor to welcome the United Nations Secretary-General to the Timorese Resistance Museum for the launch of the 'Mátria' Photo Exhibition. This event marks the 25th anniversary of the historic 1999 referendum, supported by the United Nations, where Timorese women played a pivotal role. From leading voter education campaigns and promoting community engagement to advocating for peaceful participation, women were at the forefront of this transformative process. The exhibition pays tribute to the brave Timorese women who not only fought on the frontlines but also led clandestine operations and were instrumental in state-building efforts. During the event, the UN Secretary-General honored the courage and resilience of 13 remarkable Timorese women veterans who were key figures in the resistance movement from 1975 to 1999. 'Mátria' offers a poignant contrast to the traditional notion of 'Pátria,' creating a space to reflect on the cultural and spiritual contributions of these extraordinary women. Their legacy shines as a beacon for both current and future generations, underscoring the indispensable role of women in nation-building. #MátriaExhibition #25YearsOfResilience #UNSGAtTimorLeste