Our President

Her Majesty, Azhi Sangay Choden Wangchuck's

a profound and enduring compassion for the welfare of women, youth, and children in Bhutan. This deep-seated empathy and dedication have driven her to travel extensively across the entire country. In her travels, she engages actively with diverse segments of the Bhutanese population, including rural and urban communities. Her interactions are not just fleeting visits; she spends considerable time understanding the unique challenges and aspirations of people from all walks of life. Her Majesty’s commitment is reflected in her continuous efforts to advocate for better opportunities and resources for women and children, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. Through her tireless work, she not only raises awareness but also fosters a sense of hope and empowerment among the people she meets, reinforcing her role as a compassionate and proactive leader dedicated to the betterment of society.

In January 1999, Her Majesty became the United Nations Population Fund’s (UNFPA) Goodwill Ambassador in Bhutan.

Through this travel, Her Majesty gained a comprehensive understanding of the constraints and the opportunities in the social sector of the country. She recognizes the importance and the need to ensure that the education and empowerment of women and children are integral parts of Bhutan’s overall social and economic development processes.

Demonstrating tremendous professionalism about her work Her Majesty provides as a positive female role model and increases the visibility of the empowerment of women nationwide. Her compassion and commitment to help the disadvantaged women and children of the society is exemplary. Aside from her work with RENEW, Her Majesty has also founded the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan and the Gyalyum Charitable Trust.

As the UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador, she has been privileged to provide a forum for discussion & interaction with women in urban & rural areas across the nation. Conceptualized in the year 2000, Her Majesty formally established RENEW in the year 2004. Her Majesty believes that RENEW is a timely intervention in the lives of the most exploited & vulnerable.

The United Nations honored Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck as the individual laureate for United Nations Population Award 2020. The award is in recognition of Her Majesty The Gyalyum’s outstanding contribution to raising awareness and devising solutions to population and reproductive health issues.