RENUKA RAI | Thimphu
The 18th Golden Youth Award (GYA), which concluded in March 20 in Thimphu, may have recognised a single winner, but the true impact of the programme lies in how it transforms young participants into more confident, self-aware, and responsible individuals ready to contribute to Bhutan’s future. While Yangsel Wangyel from the Royal Academy in Paro was named this year’s Golden Youth, the week-long camp demonstrated that the essence of the programme extends far beyond competition, focusing on personal growth, leadership development, and a deeper sense of national identity among Bhutanese youth.
Held under the theme “Building Leadership for Tomorrow,” the programme brought together 85 Class X students from across the country.
Over the course of the camp, participants engaged in a series of activities designed to challenge them intellectually, physically, and socially.
These activities encouraged teamwork, communication, and resilience, pushing students to step out of their comfort zones and learn from one another.
For many, the experience was not just about winning but about discovering their own strengths and limitations while building meaningful connections with peers from diverse backgrounds.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck reminded participants that leadership is rooted in values, service, and responsibility rather than titles or recognition.
She emphasised that Bhutan’s future depends on young people who are willing to act with integrity and contribute actively to their communities.
Her Majesty’s message highlighted that the nation is something entrusted to the present generation by the future, reinforcing the idea that today’s youth have a responsibility to protect and strengthen what they have inherited.
Referring to the vision of His Majesty the King, she noted that while opportunities are being created for youth, it is ultimately their duty to carry that vision forward and ensure its success.
Among those who stood out during the programme was 16-year-old Ugyen Rigsel, the first runner-up, representing Lamgong Higher Secondary School in Paro.
Reflecting on his experience, Ugyen described the programme as a rare and valuable opportunity that allowed him to grow both personally and socially.
“To be a part of the 18th Golden Youth Award is the opportunity to be in the presence of the best of the country’s youths. It is a ‘golden’ opportunity indeed,” he said. “This camp has made me understand that as an aspiring leader, one needs to know teamwork, listen to others, and finally be a social person.”
For Ugyen, one of the most impactful aspects of the programme was the opportunity to interact with students from different dzongkhags.
Coming from diverse backgrounds, participants brought unique perspectives and ideas, creating an environment rich in learning and exchange. “Interacting with peers from other dzongkhags has allowed me to feel as if I have travelled the entire country without even doing so,” he said. “People from diverse backgrounds came together during this camp, and I was happy to be a part of it. It has made me realise that everyone has the right answer, but just different ways of expressing it.”
The experience also played a significant role in shaping his personal outlook. Ugyen shared that the camp helped him become more socially confident and encouraged him to think more seriously about his future.
“This experience has made me more of a social person, allowing me to become keener on looking towards the future,” he said. “Even though it may not have directly changed my career plans, it has definitely made me think more about them.”
Like many participants, Ugyen faced challenges during the programme, particularly in communication.
Initially finding it difficult to connect with his peers, he gradually overcame this barrier through effort and adaptability.
“During the selection process, I initially faced problems with communication with my fellow peers,” he said. “But I overcame it by using effective communication, which helped me understand why they are ‘Golden Youths.’”
This process not only improved his confidence but also strengthened his ability to work collaboratively with others.
The physical component of the programme proved to be another demanding aspect for him.
“I believe the physical examination challenged me the most since I do not usually practice exercising that much,” he said. “But it made me realise the importance of developing both my mind and body.”
This emphasis on holistic development is a key feature of the Golden Youth Award, reinforcing the idea that leadership requires balance, discipline, and resilience.
Despite the competitive nature of the award, participants consistently highlighted the supportive environment fostered throughout the camp.
Rather than rivalry, there was a strong sense of unity and encouragement among students, with many helping each other improve and succeed.
This spirit of collaboration reflects the broader goal of the programme to build not just individual leaders, but a generation that works together for the nation’s progress.
Yangsel Wangyel, reflecting on his achievement, described the moment of winning as surreal and expressed gratitude for the support he received from his school and peers.
He emphasised that the award is not just a personal milestone but a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to Bhutan’s development.
His aspirations align with national initiatives and the vision of His Majesty the King, demonstrating a strong commitment among Bhutanese youth to serve the country.
The Golden Youth Award, initiated in 2005 by Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck, has become one of the most significant platforms for youth development.
It focuses not only on academic excellence but also on nurturing values such as integrity, service, and leadership.
Each year, the programme identifies promising young individuals and provides them with opportunities, including scholarships to prestigious institutions worldwide, enabling them to further their growth and contribute to society.
As the programme concluded, Ugyen Rigsel shared a message that reflects the values promoted throughout the camp.
“Stay hungry for knowledge, be loyal to the King, country and people, and always have faith,” he said. “Believe me, that is what got me through.”
His words capture the essence of the Golden Youth Award, which seeks to inspire young people to pursue knowledge, remain grounded in their values, and commit themselves to the greater good.
The Golden Youth Award stands as a testament to Bhutan’s commitment to investing in its youth, recognising that they are the foundation of the nation’s future.
