Tashi Delek, my name is Choegyal, and I am the son of Tibetan refugees. I was born here in Australia, have completed my Bachelor’s degree in Business, and currently work in Consulting.

Growing up, I had always heard about my family’s life back in Tibet and their journey into exile in India. It was through their stories that I have developed both a curiosity and passion to learn more about Tibet, and advocate for its people. I look forward to this opportunity to learn and meet with representatives in parliament, and hope to deepen my understanding of issues surrounding both the local and global Tibetan community.

My name is Pema. I was born in eastern Tibet, where there were rare chances to study and no freedom to live our own traditions. Life was unsafe, and my family had no future there, so we made the painful decision to leave. Crossing the Himalayas took three months, with many days hiding in forests and snow without food, and I was imprisoned for 29 days. Despite hunger and fear, we carried one hope—to one day see our leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama. After beginning a new life in India, I finally arrived in Australia three years ago.

Starting again in a new country has been challenging, especially learning a new language and culture while raising children. Yet I am determined to build a better future, contribute to my community, and share my culture. My story is also the story of many Tibetans who still live without freedom, and through it I hope to show that even in hardship, strength and hope can grow.

My name is Shenphen. I was born in Nepal and spent my early childhood in Budapest, Hungary. I’ve called Canberra home for nearly 3 decades now. I was part of the first lobby day and I’m very proud to be coming back and working with a new generation of Tibetan Australians to inform Australia’s leaders on the situation in Tibet and what it means for Australia.

Tashi Delek, my name is Dolma Tso, Tibetan-Australian, living in Australia for three years. My family has been directly affected by political repression, as my dad was a political prisoner went missing after returning to Tibet to support his family, while my mum courageously supported him throughout. I am committed to advocating for Tibet, standing for the freedom of my people. I carry the hopes and voice of my people.

Tashi delek, My name is Shiwa, I currently live in Newcastle Australia. I was born in Dharamshala, India and moved to Australia in 2016 at the age of 11. I play football for the Newcastle Jets Academy, and have been there since 2021. I am a proud member of Voluntary Tibet Advocacy Group (V-tag) Newcastle and V-tag Australia. This will be my first lobby day in Canberra and I am really excited.

Being an elite athlete in the Tibetan community means there is a big responsibility to advocate Tibet’s situation and make people aware of repression by the Chinese Communist Party, through sport.

Tashi Delek, My name is Tenzin. And I grew up in India and came to Australia in 2019. I am very keen on leaning and experiencing new things.

As a Tibetan, I want to spread awareness about what’s going on in Tibet and work more for Tibet cause. And I strongly hope our Tibetan issues be heard and actions taken on.

My name is Kunga and I’ve been born and raised in Australia. I am currently finishing my hsc in high school.

Being exposed to the Tibet issue at a young age has raised my ever evolving concern and interest. Through this experience I would like to learn the importance of lobbying and what I can do as a young Tibetan to encourage others to advocate for Tibet.

In a country that allows the right for free speech I would like to take advantage of this and be a voice for the Tibetans in Tibet.