Anthony Di Pietrantonio’s Cagliero Project immersion connects Salesian College Chadstone with students in Timor-Leste
When Year 12 student Anthony Di Pietrantonio travelled to Timor-Leste in July as part of the Cagliero Project, he brought with him the support of the Salesian College Chadstone community.
Anthony invited the College community to take part in the mission through donations and fundraising. Families, students and staff rallied behind the appeal, helping provide direct support for young people in Timor-Leste and strengthening the bond between Salesian College Chadstone and Don Bosco Fatumaca.
The fundraising effort centred on supporting two students through scholarships: Livia and Faviano. Through the support raised by Anthony and the Chadstone community, Livia and Faviano are being given the opportunity to continue their education with greater security and hope. For students in Timor-Leste, scholarship support can help remove barriers that might otherwise interrupt learning, allowing young people to remain connected to school, training and the guidance of their Salesian community.
Faviano’s journey has already become a source of pride. In July, he won a bronze medal in welding at the International Friendly Skills Competition, a remarkable achievement that reflects his talent, discipline and the value of technical education. His success shows what can happen when young people are given the support and confidence to develop their skills.
A mission that comes home
For Anthony, the Cagliero Project immersion was an opportunity to see Salesian mission lived in another context while reflecting on what service means at home. The experience gave Anthony a firsthand understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing young people in Timor-Leste, while highlighting the shared values that connect Salesian communities across countries.
His journey is also a story about community. Every donation, every conversation and every act of encouragement helped turn compassion into action. Through Anthony’s leadership and the support of the Salesian College Chadstone community, two students in Timor-Leste can continue their education and training.
Anthony’s experience shows how a local school community can make a meaningful difference beyond its own campus. The support raised will help ensure two young people can continue their education and pursue their goals.
One moment that stayed with Anthony was arriving at Don Bosco Laga, where children rushed to welcome the visitors. Reflecting on the experience, Anthony said:
“Their excitement was not because of what we could give them, but simply because we had come to visit and spend time with them.”
Anthony shared a reflection with his school community that can be read here: https://www.salesian.vic.edu.au/blog/we_are_salesian/we-are-salesian-anthony-di-pietrantonio/
We commend Anthony and the Salesian College Chadstone community for gathering around this worthwhile cause, standing in solidarity with our young people in Timor-Leste.
You too can make a difference. Donate today and help provide educational opportunities for young people like Livia and Faviano.
