Former Army Veteran Finds Fulfillment as Peace Corps Volunteer in Timor-Leste

Britney Ortega, a former Army Veteran, discovered great fulfillment and purpose as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Southeast Asian nation of Timor-Leste.

Having served in the Army from 2007 to 2013 with postings in Alaska and Hawaii, Ortega initially pursued studies in international business and management at the University of Hawaii at Manoa after utilizing educational benefits earned during her military service.

The Peace Corps, a government agency established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, operates in over 60 countries, facilitating volunteers to work with host communities on various projects, spanning from education to business development.

Volunteers, aged 18 and above, undergo a comprehensive two-year program in a host country, preceded by three months of training. The Peace Corps provides housing, a living stipend, and a monthly readjustment allowance to each participant.

Applicants with diverse job experiences and educational backgrounds are welcomed, with some roles requiring a four-year degree. Veterans often bring invaluable skills like problem-solving and intercultural competence to their Peace Corps service.

Ortega, in 2017, applied for a Community Economic Development position in Timor-Leste, engaging in collaborative efforts with local entrepreneurs, particularly in the coconut oil production sector.

During her two-year tenure, Ortega focused on projects that aimed to enhance economic opportunities for women and young girls while also coordinating community health education initiatives with an international health NGO.

Ortega’s establishment of an after-school English club for local children further showcased her dedication to community development and empowerment through education.

Reflecting on her experience, Ortega emphasized the personal growth she witnessed in her students, highlighting how her military background instilled in her the resilience and adaptability needed for her Peace Corps service.

Preparation for Peace Corps service involves thorough legal and medical clearances, akin to military procedures, ensuring the suitability and readiness of volunteers for the challenges ahead.

The core values ingrained in military service, including loyalty, duty, respect, service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, serve as a guiding beacon for Veterans transitioning into the realm of international volunteerism through the Peace Corps.

Ortega’s story stands as a testament to the enduring impact of military training and values in fostering meaningful service and humanitarian efforts around the globe.

For Veterans seeking to embark on a new chapter of service, the Peace Corps offers a platform to apply their skills and experiences towards sustainable development and positive change in communities worldwide.

Sourced from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs