As part of the programme, in January 2008 the first peer group training camp was held in East Timor. The camp was led by two experienced Motivation wheelchair user trainers. 12 wheelchair users from East Timor participated, learning skills to encourage greater mobility, health and independence. For the participants, the opportunity to gather and meet with people who have a similar disability was a unique and empowering experience.

Theresa, one of the camp participants says: “I have learned a lot about my health and my body. When I return home from the training camp I am confident I will be able to move around much better by myself”. Two of the camp participants are now employed part time at ASSERT, providing peer support to other wheelchair users attending the service.

A Wheelchair Basketball Clinic, held in April 2011 has also had a major impact.