Machik Program Intern Profile: Lekey Leidecker
By Lekey Leidecker Machik Program Intern
After hearing Tashi la speak in DC during summer 2014, I knew that I wanted to find out more about Machik’s work. After attending Machik Weekend 8 during November 2014, I knew that I wanted to be part of the work in any way I could! After being involved in the day-to-day work as a Machik intern, I’ve realized that social change is made up of just that: day-to- day work, done with commitment and in community, to make change happen. I was able to work on projects that mirrored my own interests, including a college guide for Tibetan students inside Tibet. I believe that the work I did during my internship is one small part of Machik’s mission of empowerment and innovation for entire Tibetan community, and I’m honored to have the opportunity. As a Tibetan-American who grew up in the US, realizing how much we can do for Tibet and Tibetans was empowering and energizing.
I finished my internship with a mind buzzing with new experiences: lunch conversations about social change, Tibetan identity, and more with the staff and interns, discussions with changemakers like Aziz Abu Sarah, and amazing stories about past SEPs or TGAP Forums from Losang la, Tashi la, and the entire staff. I’ve gotten the motivation to keep working and expanding my horizons- I’m reading books and articles on Tibetan history, seeking out Tibetan stories, and I’m considering enrolling in a Mandarin language course in the fall.
I’m truly grateful to the other interns and all of the staff for their supportive and welcoming environment. I’m also thankful that I was asked to share about my experience with all of you. If you’re reading this, you know that there is more work to be done.
I finished my internship with a mind buzzing with new experiences: lunch conversations about social change, Tibetan identity, and more with the staff and interns, discussions with changemakers like Aziz Abu Sarah, and amazing stories about past SEPs or TGAP Forums from Losang la, Tashi la, and the entire staff. I’ve gotten the motivation to keep working and expanding my horizons- I’m reading books and articles on Tibetan history, seeking out Tibetan stories, and I’m considering enrolling in a Mandarin language course in the fall.
I’m truly grateful to the other interns and all of the staff for their supportive and welcoming environment. I’m also thankful that I was asked to share about my experience with all of you. If you’re reading this, you know that there is more work to be done.