Tsetan L.

Tsetan Lhamo's story unfolds amidst the vast expanse of the remote Changthang region of Ladakh, where the Tibetan Plateau stretches into the horizon. However, beneath the serene surface lies a tumultuous past marked by the dissolution of her parents' marriage eight years ago, shattered by the destructive forces of alcoholism, abuse, and infidelity. From a tender age, Tsetan Lhamo bore the brunt of domestic violence, enduring the painful aftermath of a turbulent divorce that left scars both seen and unseen.

Her father, a distant figure, has drifted away from the family, rumored to eke out a living as a coolie on the mountain passes, disconnected from the lives he left behind. Meanwhile, Tsetan's mother shoulders the responsibilities of raising her daughter while tending to her flocks of pashmina goats during the summer months. Yet, beneath her facade of resilience lies the shadow of PTSD and depression, a testament to the wounds inflicted by past traumas.

In the fall of 2021, Tsetan Lhamo found solace and opportunity at Amrita-Seattle, a beacon of hope amidst the storm. Transitioning to a prestigious private school in Leh, she stands as a first-generation learner, a trailblazer in her own right. With a thirst for knowledge that knows no bounds, she excels academically, carving a path to success against all odds.

Residing within the nurturing embrace of Amrita-Seattle's Home of the Snow Lions, a haven for at-risk girls, Tsetan Lhamo embodies resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of education, illuminating a path toward a brighter future amidst the shadows of her past.