VOICED : Skier taking East Timor to the Winter Oly

Yonge Goncalves, a 19-year-old athlete, is set to become East Timor's first Winter Olympics competitor. Raised in France, he was inspired by a childhood joke to represent East Timor. Despite financial challenges, he has gained sponsorship and recognition, even meeting the country's president. Yonge established East Timor's National Skiing Federation to compete internationally. Training in France, he is accepted by fellow athletes and will carry East Timor's flag at the Olympics, aiming to make his country proud.

What is the significance of Yonge carrying the national flag at the opening ceremony?

Discuss the historical context of East Timor's independence and its impact on athletes like Yonge.