The Bhutanese Leading the way.
Yangsel Wangyel from the Royal Academy in Pangbisa, Paro has won the 18th Golden Youth Award.
He received a fully funded scholarship from Bhutan Youth Development Fund (BYDF) in United World College in Thailand to pursue higher education.
The first runner up is Ugyen Rigsel from Lamgong Higher Secondary School, the second runner up is Tshering Dorje from Gongzim Ugyen Dorji Central School and the third runners up is Sangay Drukdra from Phobjikha Central School.
The 18th edition of the Golden Youth Award (GYA) Camp, was held in Thimphu from 13th to 20th March 2026, with the closing and award ceremony taking place on Friday 20th March, 2026. The Guest of Honour for the event was the President of BYDF, Her Majesty Gyalyum Tserying Pem Wangchuck. The event was broadcasted from YDF’s Facebook page.
The event saw a cultural performance by Nazhoen Pelri School through a Raven Dance, the finale song of the Ling Gesar epic performance and a new song.
There were other performances too.
Established in 2005 to commemorate the 50th Birth anniversary of The Great Fourth, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Golden Youth Award is one of the most prestigious youth initiatives. This year, the 18th Golden Youth Award honored the 70th Birth Anniversary of His Majesty and His enduring vision and legacy to the development of Bhutan’s youth.
It recognises and nurtures exceptional young minds, fostering excellence in academics, sports, culture, leadership, and social contributions. It is a foundation of BYDF’s efforts to foster youth development.
A celebrated event among Bhutanese youth, it provides a platform for them to showcase their abilities and potential. The GYA’s tagline, “Building Leaders for Tomorrow,” reflects the initiative’s impact.
Every year, 80 exceptional students (40 boys and 40 girls) from class 10 are selected from across Bhutan to participate in the week-long GYA camp. The camp provides an enriching experience where students engage in training, skill-building workshops, and inspiring interactions with mentors and experts.
Following a rigorous selection process, involving local and national competitions, one student is awarded the coveted title of “Golden Youth of the Year.”
Founded in 1999, the Bhutan Youth YDF is a public benefit organisation dedicated to empowering and nurturing the potential of Bhutanese youth. Through a diverse range of programs and initiatives, BYDF provides young people with opportunities to develop their skills, cultivate leadership, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation.
With BYDF’s vision of “a better today, a brighter tomorrow,” BYDF said it remains committed to inspiring and equipping the next generation of Bhutanese leaders.
