Twenty bright young minds recently embarked on a transformative journey: the Gross National Happiness (GNH) Youth Leadership Program 2025, set in the serene heart of Bumthang Valley. This three-day immersive experience, hosted at the Dewaling GNH Centre, brought together college and higher secondary school students from nine diverse Dzongkhags.

Designed to nurture future leaders, the programme introduced participants to GNH’s nine domains and 33 indicators, inspiring them to bring positive change to their communities and beyond.

The program opened with a warm welcome and orientation led by Anisha Ghalley, programme coordinator, who shared the story of the GNH Centre Bhutan and explained how GNH philosophy can be applied in daily life.

Later, Monica Rai facilitated an engaging session exploring what makes an effective leader, the difference between leadership and management, and why both matter.

The day ended on a thoughtful note with Karma Wangdi, a senior forest officer from Wangchuck Centennial National Park. He explained how GNH’s four pillars, especially environmental conservation, have guided Bhutan’s sustainable environmental policies, benefiting both the nation and the global environment.

Participants were deeply moved by a talk from Sangay Dorji, a teacher at Kamji Central School and former GNH youth participant. Sharing his journey, including his visit to Singapore as a GNH youth ambassador, he described how the experience broadened his worldview and deepened his commitment to GNH values.

This inspiration was channelled into practical learning as Monica Rai continued sessions on leadership skills. Through group discussions and interactive skits, students confronted real-life challenges, explored different leadership styles, and strategised creative solutions.

The final day turned inward, focusing on personal well-being and mindfulness. Khenpo Gyeltshen led a session on “Mindfulness in Practice”, teaching students about the daily benefits of meditation and prayer.

This was complemented by a crucial mental health talk from Tashi Rinzin, a clinical counselor from Bumthang Hospital, who shared the importance of mental well-being and provided vital helpline resources.

The program was honored the presence of Dasho Ratana Bdr Gurung, Dzongdag of Bumthang, and the Principal Dzongkhag Education Officer at the closing ceremony. Dasho Dzongdag urged the young leaders to carry mindfulness, responsibility, and the true spirit of GNH into their lives and leadership journeys.

Participants shared heartfelt reflections:

“I was truly inspired by the facilitators’ depth of knowledge and their ability to present complex ideas with such clarity and passion. I aspire to carry that same rigor into my own future endeavors.”

- Dawa Choden, Jigme Namgyel Engineering College

“Before this program, I was quite shy about expressing my opinions. The supportive environment here, combined with practical exercises, gave me a massive confidence boost.”

- Karma Phuntsho, Bayling Central School, Trashiyangtse

“This experience has fundamentally shifted my perspective. I now understand the impact of GNH and feel motivated to contribute positively to my community and nation.”

- Sangay Lhamo, College of Language and Cultural Studies

Like many others, Karma Phuntsho noted he would gladly attend another similar program.

The program concluded with a vital session on media literacy, equipping students with critical thinking skills to responsibly navigate the digital age—a fitting finale to an experience built on the values of mindfulness, responsibility, and holistic well-being.