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Remembering Sonam Topgyal
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Born and raised in Drito (Yushu, Tibet), Sonam Topgyal dedicated his life to advocating for the wildlife and environment of Tibet. He formed the Wild Yak Brigade – a volunteer wildlife protection vigilante group – in response to the devastating loss of Tibetan antelopes killed illegally by poachers for their fine hair. Despite the remote and harsh conditions of the region, he and his team patrolled the plains and inspired events that have saved the antelopes and allowed for their numbers to grow.

Sonam’s Topgyal’s fierce spirit and commitment to the Tibetan land has created an inspiring legacy in his successor, Hashi Tashi Dorje, who formed the Snowland Great Rivers Environmental Protection Association (SGR) – the first Tibetan led environmental NGO in Tibet.

Machik partnered with SGR for the 2013 “Green Hope” Summer Enrichment Program (SEP) where we experienced firsthand the trailblazing work animated by Sonam Topgyal’s vision for ecological protection in Tibet.

On this anniversary of his untimely death, we at Machik honor Sonam Topgyal’s unflinching responsibility and care for Tibet and its land.

In memory of a great spirit,

​Machik Team

Machik, 1203 K Street NW, Washington DC, USA, 20005  |   [email protected]  |  www.machik.org | tel: 771 250 6865

​Copyright 2021 Machik. All Rights Reserved.
  • About Machik
    • Our History
  • HEALTHCARE SERVICES
    • 2025 Machik Mammogram Screenings
    • 2024 Machik Mammogram Screenings
    • 2023 Machik Mammogram Screening
  • Machik Film Screenings
  • What We Do
    • Civic Engagement
    • Healthcare Services
    • Social Innovation
  • Machik Weekend
  • 2024 Mindful Walk for Machik
  • Stories
  • Get Involved
  • Donate
  • Shop