Diversity stands out among the many things for which BYU–Hawaii is recognized, with students from more than 60 countries represented. The university celebrates the unique culture and customs of the student body, but at times, it can feel lonely to be the only person from your country on campus. Such is the case for Azeni Da Silva, a freshman from Timor-Leste, majoring in social work with minors in political science and integrated humanities.
Carrying the Flag of Timor-Leste
Being the only student from Timor-Leste has been a challenge and a blessing for Da Silva. At first, she felt nervous and unsure of herself; no one spoke her language or shared her background, making her feel isolated. But over time, she came to see it differently. “I began to understand that I have a purpose here. I represent my country, and through that, I’ve learned to embrace my identity more fully,” she states.
Da Silva sometimes feels the pressure of being the only representative of her country, especially when she knows that many students at BYU–Hawaii have never met someone from Timor-Leste. She used to worry that how she acted would shape people’s perception of the Timorese people. Still, instead of letting it scare her, she’s learned to see it as an opportunity. She tries her best to be kind, respectful, and willing to share her culture with others. “I remind myself that I don’t have to be perfect—I just have to be real,” she shares.
One of the most valuable things she carries is the importance of kindness. Back home, Da Silva and her three siblings were always taught to be considerate of others and have deep respect for elders and love of different cultures. These are values that she tries to live by each day. To remind her of home, she brought with her a few things that have deep sentimental value: a piece of Tais – a traditional handwoven cloth from Timor-Leste that represents her cultural heritage, a photo of her family on the day they were baptized back in 2019—a memory that strengthens her testimony—and the national flag of Timor-Leste, reminding her of the resilience of her people and their journey to independence.
A New Beginning in a Diverse Community
When Da Silva first arrived at BYU–Hawaii, she felt an immediate sense of belonging. What stood out to her the most was how kind and caring everyone was. Even though she’d never been formally introduced, she felt like they’d known her, and she’d known them. “People smiled, greeted me with ‘Aloha,’ and created an atmosphere of warmth and connection,” Da Silva shares. It was at that moment that she knew she belonged.
Da Silva remembers when a fellow student on campus asked her where she was from. The fellow student was startled when she answered Timor-Leste because she had never heard of such a place. They quickly resorted to Google to learn more about what she said. “As weird as it may seem, that small moment of interest made me feel seen and led me to make some good friends that day,” Da Silva recalls.
Spiritual and Academic Growth Abroad
Spiritually, being away from home has taught Da Silva to rely more on God. She’s thankful for the weekly school devotionals, religion classes, and service in her ward. These experiences have helped her build a stronger personal relationship with her Heavenly Father. She’s learned to trust in God’s plan and seek His guidance whenever she feels lost or alone.
Academically, for Da Silva, it was tough in the beginning—she’s studying in her fourth language. Back home in Timor-Leste, they speak over ten dialects, and their official languages are Tetun and Portuguese. Da Silva’s English wasn’t strong due to a lack of exposure, but through the English as an International Language Program, she was able to get better. “Over time, I’ve learned how to manage my schedule, express my thoughts more clearly, and ask for help when needed,” she shares. “My professors and classmates have been incredibly encouraging, and I now feel more confident in my ability to communicate and think critically.”
Da Silva has gained independence and resilience. Before coming to BYU–Hawaii, independence meant helping at home, attending school, and finding a part-time job. Now that Da Silva is living on her own, she’s learned what absolute independence is: managing her schedule, balancing school and work, paying bills, and caring for herself emotionally and spiritually. “It hasn’t been easy, but it’s made me stronger and more confident,” she says.
Cultural Reflection and Future Aspirations
Da Silva notices how different Hawaii is from her homeland. For example, in her culture, women don’t change their last names after marriage—it’s just not part of their system. Religion also plays a huge role back home. About 98% of the Timor-Leste population is Roman Catholic, and that influences their daily lives. She adds that their public transportation is more informal and affordable, with minibuses being the most common means of traveling—quite different from the bus system in Hawaii.
The capital city, Dili, is a small but vibrant hub where most people go for school, work, and shopping. The beach culture is different from Hawaii. While surfing is everyday here, the beaches in Timor-Leste are more peaceful and better suited for relaxing and snorkeling. The marriage traditions are far from those of a temple wedding. While still rooted in family and community, the practice of Barlake, or bride price, is still common, and many marriages are not just between the bride and groom but also between their families.
One of the best things about BYU–Hawaii, Da Silva notes, is that it allows other cultures to learn from one another. She believes the Polynesian culture resonates with her because of its deep respect for ancestors and strong sense of community—values also cherished in Timor-Leste. “It also made me reflect on how to express those values more openly. I’ve also noticed how people here are more direct or punctual, while we’re more relaxed and indirect,” she explains.
What she continues to learn at BYU–Hawaii goes far beyond academics; she’s learning to be a disciple and a leader. She plans to return home and use what she learns here to help the youth of Timor-Leste.
“I want to support programs and non-government organizations (NGOs) that empower young people through education and service,” she shares. “I also hope to share gospel-centered values that strengthen families and communities. I truly believe I can help plant seeds of change at home. If my younger self could see me now, she would say, ‘I’m so proud of you. You made the impossible possible. Keep going, and don’t give up.”