World Institute on Disability

We’re proud to welcome Aliança Fernandes to the World Institute on Disability Board of Directors.

Aliança is a dedicated peer leader and advocate from Timor-Leste, bringing a vital youth-led and grassroots perspective to WID’s board. As the Lead Project Coordinator for Juventude ba Dezenvolvimentu Násional (JDN), she has spent some time spearheading initiatives that educate and empower young people. Her leadership is centered on the intersection of disability rights, gender equity, and civic safety, ensuring that marginalized voices are at the forefront of national development.

At JDN, a dynamic community-based organization in Dili, Aliança has been instrumental in leading the Safe Transport Campaign. This critical work advocates for accessible and secure public transportation for women and people with disabilities, aiming to eliminate discrimination and systemic barriers to mobility. Her efforts extend to diverse community issues, including sexual and reproductive health education and public health prevention programs, reflecting her holistic approach to social inclusion.

With a deep commitment to eliminating social stigma, Aliança bridges local activism with broader human rights advocacy. Her work reflects the power of youth-led movements in creating sustainable change and improving the quality of life for persons with disabilities in the Pacific region. Aliança’s voice strengthens WID’s commitment to global representation and inclusive safety, and we are honored to have her leadership guide our future impact.