A Story of Change: From Challenges to Triumph – The Incredible Journey of Odned Dolma

Meet Odned Dolma, a 25-year-old from the remote Himalayan village of Zanskar, Ladakh, whose incredible journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and community support.

A Humble Beginning in the Remote Himalayan Village of Zanskar

Odned’s story begins in a small, isolated village, where she faced the harsh realities of neglect, food insecurity, and the responsibilities of a young child raised in a family of farmers and herders. At just six years old, she was sent to Leh to live with a local family, helping with domestic chores, farming, and animal husbandry, all while trying to attend a public school that offered little support. But Odned’s potential never went unnoticed.

A Turning Point: The Role of Amrita-Seattle in Odned’s Education

In 2014, Amrita-Seattle stepped in to support Odned’s education, and that moment marked the beginning of a profound transformation in her life. What began as a crucial hand-up when she was in 6th grade quickly turned into a journey of incredible academic and personal growth. With the support of the organization, Odned was enrolled in the prestigious Lamdon Model Sr. Sec. School, one of the top private schools in Ladakh. This was a significant shift from her previous schooling experiences, and it opened doors to a whole new world of possibilities.

At Lamdon, Odned thrived. She worked tirelessly in her studies, excelling not only academically but also in extracurricular activities like archery, where she developed a strong passion and skill. She made new friends, formed meaningful relationships, and was introduced to a much broader range of opportunities and dreams that she hadn’t previously imagined.

After completing her 10th grade, Odned chose to pursue the ARTS stream for 11th and 12th Grade, with a particular focus on Political Science—a subject that captured her growing interest in social issues and governance. Her circle of friends also expanded to include individuals who came from privileged backgrounds, each with their own dreams and ambitions. This experience broadened Odned’s perspective and helped her see that her own dreams were not only valid but also achievable, no matter where she came from.

From Ladakh to Delhi: Academic Achievements and Pursuing Higher Education

After completing her high school education at Lamdon Model Sr. Sec. School, Odned took a significant step toward her future by enrolling in a Bachelor’s Degree program in Political Science and International Studies at Delhi University—one of India’s most prestigious institutions. This was not only a major academic milestone but also a profound personal journey for Odned. It was the first time she had ever set foot in a city, let alone a large metropolitan city like Delhi, coming from the remote Himalayan village of Zanskar. The transition was overwhelming, as she had grown up in a small, isolated community where the pace of life was much slower and the exposure to the outside world was limited. The bustling streets, dense crowds, and fast-paced urban life were a world away from her tranquil, mountainous upbringing.

Despite the initial challenges of adjusting to city life, Odned’s determination and thirst for knowledge propelled her forward. Her time at Delhi University exposed her to a diverse, intellectual environment, allowing her to expand her academic horizons while further strengthening her passion for politics and social issues. The experience not only shaped her academically but also personally, as she navigated a completely new cultural and social landscape.

Now, as she continues her journey, Odned is back in her home region of Ladakh, where she is enrolled in Ladakh University to pursue her Master’s in Political Science. This represents another leap toward her goal of gaining a deep understanding of political systems and their impact on society, especially in the context of rural and marginalized communities.

In addition to her postgraduate studies, Odned is also preparing for the SSC (Staff Selection Commission) exams, a key set of exams for government jobs in India. This shows her commitment to not only academic excellence but also her aspiration to contribute meaningfully to her community by seeking roles where she can have a direct impact on social policies and development. Her diverse academic pursuits reflect her desire to merge her academic interests with her commitment to social change and to bring the knowledge and skills she gains back to Ladakh and other underserved areas.

Beyond the Classroom: Social Impact and Personal Growth

Odned’s journey goes beyond books. In 2019, she took part in Amrita-Seattle’s Social Impact Lab, traveling to rural Bengal for 2.5 months to work on grassroots philanthropy and community service. She also pushed her limits through a 2.5-week mountaineering training program at the renowned Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling.

Speaking Out:

In 2020, Odned was invited to be a panelist at Amrita-Seattle's webinar "Education: Doing It the Right Way", where she shared the stage with leading voices from the nonprofit sector, including Jacob Lief of Ubuntu Pathways and Ajit George of Shanti Bhavan Children's Project. Her insights on education and social change were a powerful testament to her deep understanding of the field and her commitment to shaping the future of education.

Giving Back

Today, Odned is not just a student, but an active Teaching Assistant at Amrita-Seattle’s Residential Home. She also gives back to the community by offering tutoring services for underprivileged girls, empowering the next generation to follow in her footsteps.

From overcoming obstacles to becoming a beacon of change for others, Odned’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right support, resilience, and determination, any challenge can be turned into an opportunity for growth.

Her journey from elementary school to employment is more than just an academic success—it’s a story of empowerment, perseverance, and the enduring impact of education.

Let’s continue to support individuals like Odned, who embody the spirit of resilience and transformation.