Tibetan Uprising

At 17 years old, Tenzin Dawa is the youngest member of the March to Tibet, and represents well the young generation of Tibetans concerned about their future. He grew up in the Dekyiling Tibetan Settlement in Dehradun with his mother and two older siblings. His mother supports them by weaving Tibetan aprons. Tenzin attended Tibetan schools with a focus on the language and culture of his homeland. He has traveled throughout India and Nepal singing Tibetans songs at concerts. Tenzin plans to join the orchestra division of the Indian army to improve his skills while earning money for his mother.

With an easy laugh and a passion for football, he has made many friends since he joined the march at New Delhi, especially among the monks. Tenzin says he joined the march because while in India, “You’re not in your own country and you haven’t seen your own country. I always wonder when I can see Tibet and often pray that I can see Tibet as soon as possible. If I am able to cross the border, I would be able to see Tibet. But on both side there’s a possibility of prison but I will bear any suffering.” Tenzin is an inspiring and determined young man who’s fun to be around.