Bhutanese Singer Sonam Wangchen Named UNICEF's National Youth Ambassador

The 16-year-old is UNICEF’s first ever Bhutanese youth ambassador.

UNICEF Bhutan representative, Youth Ambassador Sonam Wangchen, and ROSA Regional Director Jean Gough. (Source: UNICEF)

By Kinley Yangden | Bhutan Times

Popular Bhutanese singer and songwriter Sonam Wangchen has been named as UNICEF National Youth Ambassador. The appointment was announced yesterday on World’s Children Day.

This is the first time that a Bhutanese has been appointed as youth ambassador.

In a press release, UNICEF said that the16-year-old will use his singing, popularity and digital presence to engage with young people and empower them to speak about issues that they face. Having been a victim of online impersonation, Sonam will also speak about online safety and violence against children.

Sonam, who started singing at a young age, became famous over his hit song “Choe Thom Da” in 2015 and has since had a following of young Bhutanese fans.

“As UNICEF Youth Ambassador, I really want to work together with young people, especially on issues we believe are important to us.

“I’m honored to join UNICEF as Youth Goodwill Ambassador. I am committed to doing everything I can help to help children and adolescents, like myself, to have a brighter future.

“I believe that we have the power to change our own lives,” said Sonam.