FAQ

How was the Organizing Committee formed?
The Organizing Committee was formed organically and not systematically. The idea of a youth sponsored and initiated Tenshug was raised by a member several years ago who then reached out to the heads of the major Tibetan youth groups (about three years ago) at a gathering of Tibet groups.

As no youth group had sponsored and initiated a Tenshug offering to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, we thought His Holiness’ 90th birthday would be an auspicious and timely opportunity to express our gratitude to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, commit to following his teachings, and pray for his long life. We also view this Tenshug offering as an opportunity to connect and engage Tibetan youth around a unique Tibetan ritual to take a vow and reassure His Holiness that the next generation of Tibetans are dedicated to: continuing his work to promote universal human values, preserve Tibet’s unique culture, and advance the Tibetan cause.

The Organizing Committee took time to gain momentum, as we wanted the initiative to be inclusive, apolitical, and unifying. We wanted to prioritize transparency and encouraged equal participation, and consensus decision-making. We also needed a leader who both believed in the spirit and goals of the initiative, and could commit wholeheartedly to the initiative.

While we had initially hoped to advertise positions for the Organizing Committee, this was not possible without a leader and structures in place to manage recruitment. We therefore invited individuals who represented the major Tibetan youth groups, other large Tibetan civil society groups, and individuals representing different geographic backgrounds with valuable skills, experience, and networks. Given the resource limitations of recruitment, the Organizing Committee was established through a snow-ball effect, where existing members recommended individuals who they knew had proven skills, experience, unique insights and networks relevant to delivering a Tenshug.

The president, Ms. Dawa Choezom, was recommended by a member and approved by the Organizing Committee, recognizing Dawa’s relevant skills and experience, non-political and open-minded approach, and enthusiastic work ethic.

Why is “youth” up to 45 years for the Tibetan Youth Tenshug Project?

While the global standard defines youth as 15-24 years, for the purpose of the Tibetan Youth Tenshug  and Festival, we have considered the age range of 18-45 years for several important reasons:

•  Inclusivity & Awareness: Given our small population, we aim to include as many Tibetans as possible. This age range helps us engage more people and spread awareness about our shared objectives and goals.
• Cultural Preservation: Those up to 45 years often include young parents who play a crucial role in passing down Tibetan language, culture, and values to the next generation. Their involvement strengthens our collective identity and cultural continuity.

By defining “youth” in this way, we ensure broader participation, and the continued preservation of Tibetan language and culture.

Why is there no representation from other Tibetan organizations?

The youth Tenshug initiative is an independent, non-political, civil society-led initiative that is inclusive and unifying. As a civil-society-led initiative, it cannot include organizations like V-TAG which is an initiative led by and affiliated with the Central Tibetan Administration (Tibetan Government in Exile). However, we welcome all Tibetan youth to participate in the Tenshug and Youth Festival in any capacity they can on a personal level. As an inclusive and unifying endeavour, all other major Tibetan organizations that have a substantial youth population are welcome to join the initiative.

What is the position of the Organizing Committee on Tibetan Independence and the Middle-Way Approach?

As an inclusive initiative, we include all Tibetan youth who represent the diversity of views within our community. The focus of this Tenshug initiative is His Holiness’ teachings, the vow we will take to commit to fulfilling his teachings, including the universal human values that should guide how we live as individuals and thrive as a community. 

As a unifying and non-political initiative, we are also focused on working together for the preservation of Tibetan culture and the advancement of the Tibetan cause. We therefore do not take a political position on the debate between seeking independence or the middle-way approach.

Who is funding the Organizing Committee?

There is currently no funding for the Organizing Committee. This is a voluntary initiative. We will seek donations for:

1. The Tenshug Offering, which will be passed onto His Holiness the Dalai Lama
2. Administration of the Tenshug: This includes a scholarship fund, transport, website management, food and drinks for Tsok, audio visual equipment, etc.
3. The Youth Festival – parallel event to celebrate Tibetan culture and youth achievements, and offer platforms to discuss modern expressions of Tibetan identity, challenges, future opportunities, etc.

How can I take part in the Youth Tenshug for His Holiness initiative?

You can participate in multiple ways:

1. Donate to the Tenshug offering, the administration of the Tenshug (including the Youth Tenshug), or the Tibetan Youth Festival.
2. Apply to volunteer your time and skills in a sub-comittee.
3. Volunteer during the Tenshug event or Tibetan Youth Festival.
4. Attend the Tenshug and Tibetan Youth Festival.

I’m not Tibetan by nationality. Can I still participate in the initiative?

As a unique and unprecedented initiative and occasion, this Tibetan Youth Tenshug is only for individuals of Tibetan heritage. However, you are welcome to attend the public Tenshug and Youth Festival events and donate to the administration and festival funds, and/or volunteer to help during the events.

Why is there no representation on the Organizing Committee from Tibet?

We do not have representation from Tibet on the Organizing Committee, because affiliation with the His Holiness the Dalai Lama can result in severe persecution inside Tibet for individuals and their families. We will however endeavour to connect and work with young Tibetans inside Tibet, where possible, to offer a Tenshug from the heart of all young Tibetans.

Why is there no representation on the Organizing Committee from Taiwan and other regions with a Tibetan presence?

Perfect representation is difficult given the limitations on the size of a well-functioning Organizing Committee. However, as we build our Sub-Committees, individuals with relevant skills applying from underrepresented regions will be considered favourably.

Was permission requested from the Central Tibetan Administration, Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and other large entities?

Tenshug offerings are a purely religious ritual concerning the Lama or teacher being offered a long-life prayer offering. We submitted a letter to the Office of the Dalai Lama requesting a Tenshug offering and followed the established processes.

I’m outside the age range. Can I still participate in the Tenshug programs and activities?

 Yes, you can participate by:

1. donating to the administration and/or Youth Festival funds;
2. attending the public events of the Tenshug and Youth Festival;
3. volunteer at the events.