Lemos received the 2023 Ramon Magsaysay Award in recognition of his vision and passion in safeguarding the environment and indigenous culture of Timor-Leste, paving the way for a sustainable and independent food supply. He champions not just “food security” or access to food, but “food sovereignty”. In other words, the country’s capacity to produce its own food, focusing on what is local, natural and nutritious. In 2001, Lemos established Permatil which runs programs for youths, schools and the community. Since 2008, Permatil has trained more than 5,000 youths, and since 2015, implemented a school garden program as part of the national public school curriculum. All 13 administrative districts of Timor-Leste have implemented Permatil’s Water and Natural Resource Management Program, benefiting over 400,000 residents or almost a third of the country’s population.

(Photo: Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation)