Dharamshala, 7 October 2026: Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang, as a guest of honour, addressed the presentation ceremony of the Buddhist Society’s Christmas Humphreys Award to Kasur Jetsun Pema, the younger sister of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, widely known as Amala, the “Mother of Tibet.” The award recognized her lifelong contributions to Tibetan society, particularly her efforts to provide modern and traditional education to thousands of Tibetan children. The ceremony was held at the Upper Tibetan Children’s Village in Dharamshala.

Also in attendance were guest of honor DoS Kalon Kunga Tashi, Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, DoF Kalon Tsering Dhondup, DoHe Kalon Pema Tso, Deputy Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Justice Commissioners, heads of autonomous bodies, parliamentarians Lobsang Thupten Pontsang, Choedak Gyatso, Gonpo Dhundup, and Dawa Tsering, Secretaries of the CTA and OOHHDL, and other dignitaries.

The event brought together members of the Tibetan community, former students, educators, and well-wishers to recognize Amala’s extraordinary contributions to the care, education, and future of generations of Tibetan children.

In her address, the Speaker expressed deep gratitude to Amala and reflected on the important role of the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV). The Speaker, who was among the early students cared for at TCV in the 1960s, described the institution as much more than a school—it was a home away from home.

“TCV provided shelter, education, care, and emotional support to children who had experienced difficult circumstances, including orphans, semi-orphans, destitute children, and those in greatest need within the Tibetan community in exile.”

The Speaker emphasized that Tibetan parents entrusted their children to TCV with hopes that extended beyond academic education. They wanted their children to learn the Tibetan language and culture and to develop the knowledge and values that would enable them to contribute meaningfully to their community and, one day, reconnect with their homeland.

A central theme of the address was TCV’s motto, “Others Before Self.” The Speaker stated that the motto captured the essence of Amala’s life and service. Amala was recognized for consistently placing the needs and welfare of the children and the functioning of TCV before her own personal needs. Her commitment was demonstrated through both her actions and personal example. Even her own children were treated as part of the larger TCV family and were expected to participate in the same responsibilities as other students.

The Speaker also shared personal experiences of being connected with TCV, first as a student and later as a teacher. TCV, she noted, shaped her life beyond the classroom by instilling important values such as responsibility, discipline, humility, dignity, and compassion. She further shared that her own three children became part of the TCV family, highlighting the institution’s lasting influence across generations.

The values imparted at TCV, the Speaker noted, are universal human values that extend beyond the Tibetan community. According to her, these values are increasingly important for building a peaceful, compassionate, and harmonious society.

The Speaker also acknowledged the recognition previously bestowed upon Amala by the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, which conferred upon her the title “Gangchen Bodkyi Ama,” meaning the “Mother of Tibet.” The title was described as deeply meaningful, reflecting the qualities of a mother who provides not only shelter and care but also guidance, values, encouragement, and hope for the future.

The Speaker expressed gratitude to the Buddhist Society for recognizing an individual whose work has influenced and supported generations of children. The award was described as a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to compassion, education, service, and the welfare of others.

“Today, we honor not only Amala’s remarkable achievements, but also the generations of young Tibetans whose lives have been shaped by this institution.”

The Speaker added that across the many TCV schools throughout India, countless teachers, staff members, nurses, doctors, and others have devoted themselves to the care and well-being of young Tibetans, helping nurture them into a strong and healthy future Tibetan society.

The Speaker also honored all those who have had the privilege of serving in TCV schools, as well as the many TCV alumni who continue to serve the broader Tibetan community in different capacities. She stressed that the greatest way of honoring Amala is not simply by celebrating her achievements, but by following the path she has shown and continuing one’s own journey of service by carrying forward her example—with dedication, sincerity, compassion, and a commitment to putting others before oneself.

The event served as a heartfelt celebration of Amala’s lifelong commitment to Tibetan children and the wider Tibetan community in exile. The address highlighted her role not only as an educator and caregiver but also as a role model who embodied the principle of “Others Before Self.”

The presentation of the Christmas Humphreys Award was therefore a significant recognition of a life devoted to service, education, compassion, and the betterment of future generations.