Stanzin D.

Stanzin Dolkar, a spirited 9-year-old, originates from the remote Changthang region of Ladakh, situated amidst the majestic Tibetan Plateau. Her young life has been marked by tumult, as her parents' divorce, prompted by issues of alcoholism and abuse, cast a shadow over her formative years. Alongside her younger sister Padma, she bore witness to the painful echoes of domestic violence and endured the turbulent aftermath of a rough divorce.

Amidst the chaos, Dolkar's father toils tirelessly as a coolie on the treacherous mountain passes, having previously navigated the roads as a load-carrier. Her mother, resilient in the face of adversity, runs a modest tea shack during the fleeting summer season, striving to provide for her daughters.

In the fall of 2019, Dolkar found sanctuary and opportunity at Amrita-Seattle. Residing within the nurturing embrace of Home of the Snow Lions, a residential haven for at-risk girls, she embarked on a journey of transformation. Transitioning to a prestigious private school in Leh, Dolkar embodies the resilience and determination of a first-generation student.

With an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning, Dolkar excels academically, emerging as a top student amongst her peers. Her innate curiosity about the world fuels her love for reading, while her playful spirit finds joy in dancing and nurturing her creativity through imaginative play with her dolls. Over time, she has blossomed in confidence, forging meaningful friendships and actively engaging in her studies.

Driven by her experiences and inspired by her teachers, Dolkar harbors a noble dream—to become a teacher herself, a beacon of hope and guidance for future generations. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of education.