Tenzin Yoedchenma Dorjee, a student of Yangchenphug Higher Secondary School in Thimphu, won the 17th Golden Youth Award 2025. She will receive a scholarship to continue her studies abroad. Her Majesty Queen Mother Tseyring Pem Wangchuck and Royal Family members graced the closing ceremony yesterday.
Their Royal Highnesses Princess Chimi Yangzom Wangchuck, Princess Kesang Choden Wangchuck, and Prince Ugyen Jigme Wangchuck also attended the ceremony.
Speaking at the closing ceremony to the youths gathered, Her Majesty Queen Mother Tseyring Pem Wangchuck said remembering their roots while recognising that they are the nation’s future is important. Her Majesty highlighted the need for perseverance in difficult times and resilience to overcome challenges.
After Her Majesty’s address, it was the moment of truth. Following the week-long contest, 15-year-old Tenzin Yoedchenma Dorjee who is from Thimphu was declared the winner of the 17th edition of the award. She said she has always dreamed of participating in the Golden Youth Award and winning it was the icing on the cake.
“Firstly, I would like to thank His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, for it is through his vision that youths like me have such opportunities. With this honour, I will shoulder my responsibilities and prove I am worthy of this award,” she said.
Milan Sunwar from Sherubling Higher Secondary School in Trongsa is the first runner-up.
“I met many talented friends and learned a lot from them. The best part of the camp was the talent show. We were all encouraged to showcase our talents and express ourselves in our own ways,” he said.
Starting this year, both the winner and the first runner-up will receive scholarships to study at United World College Wales in the UK and United World College Canada.
Meanwhile, Kingyel Wangchuk Dorji from Bhutan Football Federation Academy in Thimphu and Euphelma Menza from Gelephu Middle Secondary School in Sarpang were declared as second and third runners-up, respectively.
Each year, 80 students selected from 20 districts take part in the Golden Youth Award. The participants are assessed on academic competencies, extra co-curricular activities, innovation, talent and communication skills.
The Golden Youth Award camp which began in 2008, serves as a platform to inspire and empower young individuals.
Jamyang Loday
Edited by Sangay Chezom
