Kathmandu – In a proud and momentous occasion recognising decades of unwavering service, Mr Sonam Sangpo, a Tibetan refugee and co-founder of the Pokhara Annapurna Lions Club Chapter, has been awarded the Lions Club International President’s Medal – one of the highest honours bestowed by the global humanitarian organisation.

At a special ceremony held at the Best Western Plus Kathmandu on 1 August 2025, the award was presented to Mr Sangpo by the District Governor of Lions Club Nepal, Lion Milan Thapa, on behalf of the Lions International President. This marks the second time Mr Sangpo has received this rare distinction – a testament to his enduring commitment to humanitarian service. The medal honours individuals whose lifelong contributions embody the Lions’ global motto: “We Serve”.

Mr Sangpo, who fled Tibet in 1959 and has lived in the Pokhara Valley since his early years in exile, co-founded the Pokhara Annapurna Lions Club in 1987. Since its inception, he has remained a dedicated and driving force behind the club’s humanitarian outreach, focusing particularly on Nepal’s rural and underserved populations.

His decades of tireless service have included:

1. Poverty alleviation and income-generation programmes in remote communities

2. Educational initiatives and scholarships for underprivileged children

3. Clean drinking water, sanitation, and community development projects

4. Free health camps and the expansion of rural healthcare access

5. Emergency relief efforts during natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods

In addition to his broader humanitarian work across Nepal, Mr Sangpo has remained a steadfast leader within the Tibetan refugee community, taking on key roles in grassroots organisations and community-based initiatives. His leadership has helped preserve cultural identity, promote education and welfare among Tibetan exiles, and foster resilience amid the ongoing challenges of displacement.

Speaking at the ceremony, Lions Club officials praised Mr Sangpo’s “exceptional spirit of service and compassion”, noting his ability to bridge divides and uplift communities during Nepal’s most critical times.

“Mr Sonam Sangpo exemplifies the very best of what it means to be a Lion,” said a senior official. “His enduring impact and dedication continue to inspire generations of volunteers – not just in Nepal, but globally.”

For Mr Sangpo, the award is a shared achievement.

“This medal is not just for me,” he said modestly. “It belongs to every volunteer, donor, and community member who believes in uplifting others. Together, we can build a more compassionate and just society.”

As Nepal continues to navigate socio-economic challenges, especially in its rural heartlands, role models like Mr Sangpo – who lives his values rooted in compassion and the Buddhist principle of giving – offer a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished through grassroots action, moral leadership, and community spirit.

The auspicious occasion was made all the more significant by the presence of Biswo Nath Poudel, Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank. His participation lent added prestige to the event, and, in a symbolic gesture of recognition, it was Governor Poudel himself who formally presented the honour. This not only highlighted the importance of the award, but also reflected the broader support and acknowledgement of humanitarian service at the highest institutional levels in Nepal.

About Lions Club International

Founded in 1917, Lions Club International is one of the world’s largest and most active service organisations, with over 1.4 million members across more than 200 countries and geographic areas. The President’s Medal is one of its most prestigious awards, given to individuals demonstrating outstanding humanitarian contributions and leadership.