Every first Saturday of the month, DIIR’s Social Media Desk profiles a civil servant of Central Tibetan Administration as a part of its shout-out campaign, This week we are pleased to profile Mr. Tenzin Choephal of the Department of Health, Central Tibetan Administration.
Social Media Executive (SME): Could you tell me briefly about yourself?
Tenzin Choephal (TC): My name is Tenzin Choephal and I was born in Dharamsala, India. I did my schooling from Tibetan Children’s Village school in Upper Dharamsala and completed my class XII in the year 1998. Being the eldest child in the family I had the responsibility to look after our home. Therefore, I stayed back at home to help my parents to run the household until I was married. In July 2007 I was recruited by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and since then I have been working as a plumber.
SME: Please explain your job description and how best does your work represent you or vice versa?
TC: My main job is to manage water and sanitation of CTA. In simple terms, I have to look after the welfare of CTA staff in terms of water supply and overhaul broken water pipes. And I also look after the sweepers who are assigned by the Department of Health to keep the compound clean and conducive to the working environment.
SME: What inspired you to serve the CTA?
TC: Being born and grown up in the Tibetan community in Dharamsala, the seat of CTA, I have always seen the Tibetan freedom struggle right in front of my eyes. This has certainly encouraged me to serve my own community. But my decision to join CTA was solely because of my parents, who constantly provided me unceasing guidance and support. I’m forever grateful to them for making me a better person each day.
SME: What does it mean for you to be a civil servant in CTA?
TC: It means everything to me. As a Buddhist, I believe it is my karmic connection to become a civil servant in CTA. Also, I am honored to be able to serve my nation at this difficult time in our history. It gives me immense joy and satisfaction.
SME: How best do you think you can make a difference to CTA?
TC: From my point of view, by doing my best and by working with full dedication and sincerity, I believe I can make a difference in my work area.
SME: Who is your role model and why?
TC: My biggest role model is His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. I have been always been inspired by his selfless and unflagging work towards achieving the greater goals of world peace and happiness. His vision of world peace is founded on principles of non-violence and dialogue. It goes without saying that our older generation’s hard work and dedication to strengthening the freedom movement is definitely commendable.
SME: What is your piece of advice for the young Tibetan serving or wishing to serve at CTA?
TC: Generally speaking, I do not see my self in a position to give advice to others. But I would rather urge young and aspiring Tibetans who are serving or willing to serve at CTA to give your best. Furthermore, I feel it is very important to think that we have the onus to carry forward the struggle.