Tenzin Phakdon, a pioneering figure in Tibetan journalism, boldly pursued a career in a field that was unconventional for women in her community at the time. Inspired by her father’s encouragement, she chose journalism as it provided greater accessibility for women and opened doors to valuable travel opportunities.

Awarded a scholarship for a master’s degree at the premier Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media, Phakdon gained practical experience in various media forms and developed a strong sense of social responsibility and ethics. Her career began at the Deccan Herald before she joined Radio Free Asia’s Tibetan division in Dharamsala in 2019.

Looking back on her nine-year career, Phakdon fondly remembers her time at RFA as incredibly fulfilling, particularly in bringing together Tibetans worldwide. Her coverage of Tibet’s healthcare system during the pandemic stands out as a particularly significant accomplishment. Amidst the peak of the pandemic, she took on the difficult task of collecting information from Tibet regarding the healthcare system’s operations.

She credits the invaluable scholarship she received for opening doors and giving her the freedom to pursue her goals. These opportunities have allowed her to develop her skills, advance her career, and make a meaningful difference in Tibetan Journalism.