Natalino Soares

Deputy Head of Project Management Unit / Contract Management Officer - Timor Leste - ASLIP 2024

I am a Political Science and Economics graduate from West Virginia University, USA, currently serving as the Deputy Head of the Project Management Unit/Contract Management Officer for the Dili Solid Waste Management Project at the Dili Municipality Authority. This pilot project aims to address solid waste management challenges in Timor-Leste's capital. Previously, I contributed to the UN World Food Programme's Supply Chain Unit in 2021, playing a key role during the pandemic. In 2020, amid COVID-19, I worked as a Contract Manager with Caltech Offshore Services, overseeing Timorese technical workers at an oil and gas refinery.  I co-founded Dalen-Ruak Translation Services, facilitating Tetum-English translation and interpretation. Beyond my professional work, I dedicate weekends to teaching English to children in my community. With plans to pursue a Master’s in Project Management, I aspire to establish a consultancy promoting sustainable projects in Timor-Leste. 

What were the highlights and key takeaways from ASLIP 2024? 

The ASEAN Sustainable Leadership in Infrastructure Programme (ASLIP) 2024 was a transformative experience that fostered significant personal and professional growth. Collaborative workshops and expert-led seminars provided valuable insights into sustainable infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of integrating social, environmental, and economic factors. Networking opportunities across ASEAN enabled future collaborations, while case studies highlighted the success of sustainability-focused projects. Key takeaways included the need for holistic project management, adaptive leadership, and community engagement to ensure inclusive, long-term impact. The program also emphasized the importance of government support and policy frameworks in advancing sustainable initiatives. The lessons from ASLIP 2024 strengthened the commitment to applying these strategies in future projects, particularly in promoting sustainable development in Timor-Leste. It reaffirmed that sustainable leadership in infrastructure is vital for building resilient, environmentally conscious communities. 

How have you integrated the knowledge and skills you've gained into your current role? 

Integrating insights from ASLIP 2024 into my role has enhanced my project management approach, emphasizing sustainable practices in Timor-Leste. I now prioritize holistic project planning, balancing social, environmental, and economic factors, which has improved solid waste management and infrastructure projects. Community engagement is central to my approach, incorporating local feedback to ensure solutions are effective and culturally appropriate. I also foster adaptive leadership and collaboration, motivating my team to focus on long-term impacts. Additionally, I ensure projects align with national and international standards, seeking government support for sustainable initiatives. Exposure to innovative solutions has led me to advocate for data-driven tools, improving efficiency and sustainability. This commitment to sustainability has deepened, transforming my role from project delivery to a leader championing responsible practice. Ultimately, ASLIP 2024 has strengthened my resolve to lead projects that support Timor-Leste's sustainable development. 

What advice would you offer future participants to help them make the most of their experience?

For future participants of ASLIP, my advice is to actively engage in every aspect of the program. Embrace collaborative workshops and expert-led seminars as opportunities to expand your knowledge and build meaningful connections with fellow leaders across ASEAN. Be open to sharing your experiences and learning from others, as the exchange of ideas is invaluable. Focus on community engagement and apply the program’s emphasis on inclusivity to your own projects—ensure that local voices are integral to decision-making. Develop a mindset of adaptive leadership, recognizing that challenges are opportunities for innovation and growth. Take full advantage of networking opportunities, building lasting relationships that will support future collaborations. Additionally, stay committed to the principles of sustainability—both environmentally and socially. Lastly, apply what you learn in real-time, ensuring that your insights directly contribute to impactful, long-term development in your home country. This hands-on approach will maximize your ASLIP experience. 
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