I am Tashi Yangzom, born and raised in a Tibetan refugee community in exile. Growing up in India, my family had very little, and we lived simply. My parents often gave to those less fortunate than us, even though they did not have much to give. My mother would give food and clothes to those she believed needed it more than our own family. At a young age, my mother instilled in me the desire and importance of helping others in need, and I would like to continue to follow through with the beliefs she has raised me to appreciate.
After leaving India more than 25 years ago, I moved to Dubai, and later to the United States where I settled with my husband. I studied to become a hair stylist and I worked persistently to open my own hair salon. I am blessed to be raising my two beautiful daughters along with my husband, and with the support of my parents. It has been also been a blessing to have both of my parents with me throughout my journey here in the United States. After working as a hairdresser for 24 years, and owning my own shop for 15, I had to make the difficult decision to close my shop due to these unprecedented times during Covid-19. Closing my shop was devastating, however, I have taken this opportunity to do what I feel I was meant to do all along, and that is to put my time and effort into helping those who are in need.
As I reflect back on my childhood in India, my mother’s unselfishness, and the recent changes in my career, I believe this is my opportunity for a new course in life. Ironically, after many years of not hearing from my Uncle Rinzin Dorjee, who still resides in India, we have reconnected. During a recent phone call, my Uncle informed that he is dedicating his time, even though he is retired, to help those less fortunate in the remote villages in Tuting, located near India and Tibet border. The people in these remote villages are lacking the basic necessities, such as clothing, food, and shelter. Seeing pictures of the unfortunate and unimaginable living conditions of the people in this village, and speaking with my uncle about the needs of these deprived people, I feel it is my obligation to help change their lives. I have monetarily donated what I could to the poor, elderly, and children, but I want to be able to provide them with more. I am using this time, during COVID-19 to turn something unprecedented into something noble. With the support of family and friends, I am hoping to gather donations so that I may continue to give to the people in these communities of need. A donation of any amount would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your kindness and support. If you are able to continue to share my goals with family and friends, I would deeply appreciate it. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or suggestions.
Tashi Yangzom
After leaving India more than 25 years ago, I moved to Dubai, and later to the United States where I settled with my husband. I studied to become a hair stylist and I worked persistently to open my own hair salon. I am blessed to be raising my two beautiful daughters along with my husband, and with the support of my parents. It has been also been a blessing to have both of my parents with me throughout my journey here in the United States. After working as a hairdresser for 24 years, and owning my own shop for 15, I had to make the difficult decision to close my shop due to these unprecedented times during Covid-19. Closing my shop was devastating, however, I have taken this opportunity to do what I feel I was meant to do all along, and that is to put my time and effort into helping those who are in need.
As I reflect back on my childhood in India, my mother’s unselfishness, and the recent changes in my career, I believe this is my opportunity for a new course in life. Ironically, after many years of not hearing from my Uncle Rinzin Dorjee, who still resides in India, we have reconnected. During a recent phone call, my Uncle informed that he is dedicating his time, even though he is retired, to help those less fortunate in the remote villages in Tuting, located near India and Tibet border. The people in these remote villages are lacking the basic necessities, such as clothing, food, and shelter. Seeing pictures of the unfortunate and unimaginable living conditions of the people in this village, and speaking with my uncle about the needs of these deprived people, I feel it is my obligation to help change their lives. I have monetarily donated what I could to the poor, elderly, and children, but I want to be able to provide them with more. I am using this time, during COVID-19 to turn something unprecedented into something noble. With the support of family and friends, I am hoping to gather donations so that I may continue to give to the people in these communities of need. A donation of any amount would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your kindness and support. If you are able to continue to share my goals with family and friends, I would deeply appreciate it. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or suggestions.
Tashi Yangzom
Organizer
Tashi Yangzom
Organizer
Medford, MA