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Living out our Mission beyond Australian borders

In a small office in Dili, Timor-Leste, Sr. Justino Godinho Soares begins his connecting with colleagues, reflecting on purpose, and working to make a difference in the lives of others.

14 Aug 2025

Caregivers standing and crouching in a room looking at the camera.

Sr. Justino Godinho Soares standing with his hands together looking at the camera.Justino is the Language and Culture Team Leader with St John of God International Health. His work supports local health care workers to grow in skills, confidence and compassion.

Since joining the team in 2015, Justino has grown into a respected leader. His work helps build bridges between cultures and foster collaboration between Timorese professionals and their Australian colleagues.

His leadership has been shaped by deep engagement with our Mission, from participating in the Mission Mentoring Program to chairing team meetings that model inclusive leadership and thoughtful communication. He speaks passionately about how these values have shaped not just his professional path, but his personal growth.

What many may not realise is that this work is being done in collaboration with you - our patients and clients. By choosing St John of God Health Care you are enabling us to work with governments and local health care providers in Timor-Leste to build sustainable programs and strengthen the capacity of the health care workforce.

The Mission and Values that guide us, Hospitality, Compassion, Respect, Justice and Excellence, don’t stop at the hospital doors. They are lived out every day by our teams, both here and abroad, in quiet, meaningful and lasting ways.

To find out more visit: www.sjog.org.au/internationalhealth