She chose Canada because it is a “country with a golden heart,” she explains. “It’s a country that has a strong tradition of being compassionate; a strong tradition of providing humanitarian assistance to refugees — and not just refugees, but helping immigrants as well.

“I heard great things about Canada — also about the health care and the education system, and that if you work really hard you can do things in Canada.”

Her sense of purpose is rooted deeply in her identity as a Tibetan and the fact she grew up without a homeland, she says. From the moment she arrived in Canada, “I volunteered right away because it was the fastest way for me to integrate into society and the community in order to have a smooth transition,” she says.

Within weeks, she was at Parkdale Legal Services, helping with interpretation and family reunification. Then she got a job at St. Christopher House as a newcomer co-ordinator.

“Even though I was born and raised as a refugee, I always live my life with hope,” she explains. “I push myself each day to do better.”

The only member of her family to attend college, Yangzom remains grateful for all the opportunities she has had.