On 24 April 2026, the Bakhita School of Excellence in Same celebrated its third anniversary — a day filled with pride, joy, and a powerful reflection of how far the school community has come.
The celebration was beautifully led by two of our own Year 3 students, Joy and Riaana, who confidently hosted the event in both English and Tetun, welcoming guests, families, and the wider community with pride and professionalism.
From 10:30am, the program of performances began, showcasing learning across all year levels:
- Foundation Red Class performed “4 Little Ducks”, demonstrating their learning in Maths and English
- Foundation Yellow Class shared a handwashing dance, highlighting Health and Dance
- Year 1 Red Class presented a traditional fashion show, introducing themselves in Portuguese
- Year 1 Yellow Class followed with a modern fashion show, introducing themselves in English
- Year 2 Red Class performed a traditional Portuguese dance, reflecting learning in Portuguese, Art, and Culture
- Year 2 Yellow Class presented a solar system drama, bringing Science to life
- Year 3 Red Class performed a traditional Timorese dance
- Year 3 Yellow Class closed with a drama about friendship, showcasing learning in HASS and English
Each performance reflected not just what students have learned, but who they are becoming — confident, capable, and proud.
Following the performances, Founder Ornella Byak shared a deeply personal reflection on the journey of the school:
“Three years ago in this very hall we had just opened the Bakhita School of Excellence with 50 students and 9 staff… and we had truly just started.”
She spoke about the dream that began when she first came to Timor at just 14 years old, and how that vision has now grown into something far greater than she could have imagined:
“Standing here three years later I could not be more proud.”
Her words reflected the deep connection she holds with the students:
“Those 50 students, three years ago — and all our 200 students today — I see like my own kids… You are my world. You are the reason we are all here.”
She shared how the community shaped her journey just as much as she has helped shape the school:
“The 300 strangers that sat in this room three years ago are now like family… You trusted your most important life’s work — your children — with me and this school.”
Ornella also acknowledged the unique model of the school — blending the Timorese curriculum with English and elements of the Australian curriculum — made possible through the support of over 45 Australian volunteers, as well as generous donors who continue to back the mission.
In just three years, the growth has been extraordinary:
“We have grown from 50 students to nearly 200. That is not just growth. That is transformation.”
A particularly special part of the celebration was recognising the incredible Bakhita staff team — their dedication, growth, and commitment to the school and each other. Awards were presented to staff members who embody the school’s core values of Empowerment, Innovation, Accountability, Passion for People, and Sustainability, alongside recognition of long-serving staff who have helped shape the school from the very beginning.
The day concluded with a shared meal prepared by parents, time spent viewing student work displayed across the hall, and, of course, dancing — bringing everyone together in a true celebration of community.
As Ornella closed her speech, she reminded everyone:
“Thank you for believing in this school.
Thank you for believing in these children.
And thank you for being part of this journey.
This is only the beginning.”
Moments like this capture what Bakhita has become in just three years — not just a school, but a strong, united, and growing community.
Watch the full anniversary celebrations here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOhIEMbjHKE&list=PLuLI_iHiL_epXoLz99t4f0-aB6l3Css8J