Order of Timor-Leste for Spend it Well’s Directors

On June 19, 2026, we were each presented with an Insignia of the Order of Timor-Leste by his Excellency the President José Ramos Horta in recognition of our contribution to Timor-Leste and its’ people.

This is a great honour which reflects the kindness, generosity and support of the amazing Spend it Well community as well as the work of Agostinho Soares, Napoleäo Guterres and many others. We couldn’t have done this alone and greatly appreciate everybody who has been alongside us at Spend it Well including Kirsty Sword Gusmâo and the Ministry of Education.

When Kris, her husband Stephen and Graham Thomson established Spend it Well in 2009, they had no idea that we’d be opening Spend it Well’s 30th school 17 years later.

Thank you for believing in what we do and helping us make such a difference to the lives of so many children and families.

Obrigada Barak

Nandy, Simon and Kris