Tashi Delek, my name is Kelsang. I was born in India as a Tibetan refugee and moved to Australia when I was 13 years old. Growing up away from our homeland has taught me the importance of preserving our culture, language, and identity.

I have always loved being involved in the Tibetan community, whether through traditional dance performances, cultural events, or advocacy for Tibet. I believe that every Tibetan born after 1959 is a born activist, carrying both the responsibility and privilege of keeping our story alive. Through community work, leadership roles with V-TAG, and participation in peaceful protests, I strive to honour the sacrifices of those who came before us and ensure that the voice of Tibet continues to be heard.

My name is Dezom, and I was born in Tibet. When I was around eight years old, I escaped Tibet with a group of strangers, walking for nearly 19 days across the Himalayas to reach India.

My father was a freedom fighter who opposed the Chinese Communist regime in Tibet. Because of his activism, he was imprisoned and eventually died in custody. From that day onward, I lost not only my father, but also my home and my sense of belonging.

I would be lying if I said I never wished for a normal childhood, a childhood with a loving family, a place to call home, and no need to flee in fear. Sometimes I wonder how different my life might have been if I had not experienced the trauma of loss and displacement that followed me into adulthood.

At the same time, I know that these experiences have shaped who I am. They have made me a compassionate, resilient, and empathetic woman. Despite what happened to me and my family, I have never wanted to harm others. Instead, my experiences have strengthened my belief in kindness and respect for all living beings.

I also consider myself fortunate, and I believe that gratitude and grief can coexist. I am grateful that I was able to build a life in a free country like Australia and enjoy opportunities that many Tibetans still do not have. Yet with that privilege comes responsibility.

I feel a duty to share my story and to speak about the experiences of Tibetans who could not escape. Since I was young, I have understood that I must use my voice for those who continue to be silenced in Tibet. Telling our stories is not only a way of preserving our history, it is also a way of honouring those who sacrificed so much and ensuring that they are not
forgotten.