Kyila’s Success in Tibet

In 2017, Global Roots celebrated a major milestone in Tibet as our long-time partner, Kyila, achieved remarkable progress in her mission to support blind Tibetan children. Kyila, the first sightless Tibetan woman to learn Braille, start a business, study abroad, attempt Everest, and establish Tibet’s first school for sightless kindergarteners, made history once again.

For the first time, state-run schools in Tibet accepted blind Tibetan children, marking a transformative moment for inclusive education in the region. As Kyila’s primary supporter—having contributed $50,000 in cash donations and an additional $35,000 in supplies and administrative support—Global Roots took great pride in her accomplishments.

Since 2010, we had been working alongside Kyila to build her kindergarten in rural Shigatse, which was later relocated to Lhasa in 2016. Her dedication and perseverance gained national recognition when CGTN (Chinese Global Television Network) featured her work, a moment that we believe played a role in influencing the Chinese government’s decision to integrate blind kindergarteners into state schools.

Kyila personally escorted all 22 of her students to their new school and remained involved in their progress. While her kindergarten was no longer in operation, her mission continued. She dedicated herself to ensuring that sightless Tibetan children received the education and support they needed, following them through elementary school, high school, and beyond to help them navigate China’s rigorous college entrance exams.

With the closure of Kyila’s kindergarten, Global Roots redirected its support to her broader efforts in advocating for the rights and education of sightless Tibetan children. This work remained crucial in helping these children move beyond home confinement and into classrooms, providing them with the opportunity to lead fulfilling, independent lives.

Kyila’s journey was a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of global support. Her success was not just her own—it was a victory for every child who, despite their blindness, could now dream of a brighter future.