Living in exile in India, Tibetan monk Lobsang Jamyang has made it his mission to uplift children living in slums by offering them the transformative power of education. Through his organization, the Tong-Len Charitable Trust which was established in 2004; Jamyang has profoundly impacted the lives of hundreds of children who once survived by hunting or begging on the streets.
A Vision Born with Global Support
The Tong-Len Charitable Trust began its journey with the support of two volunteers from the UK. Over the last two decades, it has grown into a lifeline for underprivileged children. Many of these children, once confined to a life of poverty and hardship are now pursuing prestigious careers as doctors, engineers, journalists, and healthcare professionals. The efforts of the organization have been boosted by the assistance of the Dalai Lama Trust, which extends unwavering support to ensure these young lives have access to education and resources.
A Gradual Yet Transformative Journey
Reflecting on the journey of the Trust, Lobsang Jamyang told ANI, "In 2004, our primary goal was to save the lives of slum children and give them access to basic education. Over time, as they progressed to middle and high school, we witnessed their incredible potential. They were talented and determined, and with our continued support, many of them reached college and pursued higher education."
From Dreams to Achievements
Today, the accomplishments of the children supported by Tong-Len stand as a testament to their resilience and the organization's commitment. Among them, Dr. Pinki, one of the program's most notable alumni serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others. Her journey from the slums to becoming a doctor showcases the transformative power of education when accompanied by dedicated guidance.
In addition to nurturing students toward traditional professions, Tong-Len also supports those aspiring to join India's civil services. "Some students are preparing for UPSC and allied services," Jamyang added, highlighting the diverse ambitions of the children under the Trust's care.
Building a Legacy of Hope
The work of Lobsang Jamyang and the Tong-Len Charitable Trust goes beyond education. It offers a chance for children to rewrite their destiny and escape the cycle of poverty. The Trust not only equips them with knowledge and skills but also instills a sense of confidence by enabling them to envision a better future for themselves and their communities. Through relentless effort and unwavering compassion, Jamyang's vision has become a reality, proving that education has the power to change lives as no matter how humble the beginnings were.
The Journey of Transformation: Empowering Dreams through Education
In a world where aspirations often clash with societal norms, stories of individuals overcoming obstacles shine brightly. Two remarkable women, Mamta and Dr. Pinki Haryan, exemplify this transformative journey by showcasing the power of education and determination in changing lives.
Mamta's Aspirations for Change
Mamta is currently preparing for the SSC CGL exam with the hope of securing a government job. In a conversation with ANI, she shared her personal journey by highlighting her early connection with the Tong-Len Institute which she joined when it first opened in 2004. Mamta recalls being among the first ten students at this institution which has played a pivotal role in changing the lives of many individuals in her community.
Reflecting on her past, Mamta expressed how her circumstances could have led her down a different path—one that might have resulted in early marriage as cultural norms in her community dictate that unmarried women should not remain single past the age of 18. However, thanks to the support and education she received at Tong-Len, her parents now believe in her potential and capabilities. Mamta is motivated to pursue a government job not only for herself but also to inspire change within her community where she notes that no one has yet ventured into the government sector. Her ambition is to pave the way for others and demonstrate that success is possible.
Dr. Pinki Haryan: From Begging to Becoming a Doctor
Dr. Pinki Haryan’s story is equally inspiring. Having experienced a challenging childhood where she begged on the streets, she has now achieved the remarkable feat of becoming a doctor. Recently completing her MBBS degree on July 24, Dr. Pinki is now focused on passing the FMG exam so that she can practice medicine in India.
Her journey from 2004 to 2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary. Dr. Pinki describes this transformation as a significant shift—not only in educational achievements but also in lifestyle changes. She emphasizes that there has been a profound evolution in the mindset of individuals within her community.
Dr. Pinki acknowledges the challenges faced by Guru Jamyang, who worked tirelessly to persuade and guide parents about the importance of education for their children. She expresses gratitude that her parents made the right choice to support her education at that time. Today, she is proud to see many children from her community preparing for competitive exams, demonstrating their newfound capabilities and aspirations.
Both Mamta and Dr. Pinki Haryan highlight how education can serve as a powerful tool for personal and communal transformation. Their stories reflect not just individual triumphs but also signify a broader change within their community—a shift towards valuing education and pursuing dreams against all odds.
Lakshmi, a class 9 student who recently shared her experience with ANI by highlighting the transformative influence of the Tong-Len organization on her life and the lives of her peers. She noted, "Many of the students of this organization have achieved a successful life and they are inspiring all of us. Some are doctors, engineers, news reporters, or are pursuing nursing training." This statement reflects the significant strides made by students who once faced terrible circumstances.
A Journey from Struggle to Success
Lakshmi recalls a time when she and her community lived in slums without basic necessities like food and water. However, she proudly mentions that their situation has dramatically improved, stating, "Now there is a big change and we are living in a social house here." This shift underscores the essential role that education plays in breaking the cycle of poverty.
Tong-Len's educational initiatives include running a school that offers classes up to grade 10. The school provides not only academic education but also essential nutrition and care for students from slum areas. This holistic approach ensures that children receive a well-rounded education while addressing their basic needs.
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