Congratulations to Vancouver author Alan Twigg

Established in 1989, the Order of B.C. recognizes individuals from all walks of life and fields of endeavour who have made extraordinary contributions to the province and beyond.

A long time friend of TRAS, author Alan Twigg, CM, Vancouver, has been invested into the Order of British Columbia, for his unparalleled contributions to B.C.’s literary landscape, championing writers, preserving stories and building the foundation of a thriving literary culture.

Alan has written over 20 books, including Tibetans in Exile: The Dalai Lama & The Woodcocks (Ronsdale, 2009), the amazing story of how George and Ingeborg while travelling in northern India in 1961 encountered many of the Tibetan refugees who had fled over the mountain passes. Appalled by the condition of the children huddled together with inadequate bedding, surviving on a diet of thin soup and momos, steamed dumplings of mixed wheat and corn flour, they expressed their desire to help. “You must absolutely come and see uncle,” said a young girl. This was Khando Yapshi, the Dalai Lama’s niece. Among the first Westerners to meet with the Dalai Lama, the Woodcocks vowed to provide humanitarian assistance. This was the genesis for the Tibetan Refugee Aid Society, now named Trans-Himalayan Aid Society (TRAS).

Read more about Alan here

Please contact TRAS for a free copy of the Tibetans in Exile: The Dalai Lama & The Woodcocks

Email: info@tras.ca

Rainbow School, Zanskar

Rainbow School Library, Zanskar, Ladakh – support in establishing a well-furnished library.  

The school president wrote in November 2024

“I am delighted to share that the library is now fully completed and actively serving our students. The new library has truly transformed the learning experience at Rainbow School. It is a spacious, welcoming, and well-organized space filled with a diverse range of children’s books, thoughtfully selected to cater to various age groups and interests. Observing our students immersed in reading in such an inspiring environment is indeed a pleasure. The library has had a profound impact on fostering a love for reading among our students. To make the most of this facility, we have introduced designated Library Days. Each class spends dedicated hours in the library, reading independently or participating in interactive sessions where the librarian explains books and teaches library etiquette. These initiatives have significantly contributed to developing reading habits and expanding our students’ knowledge horizons.

Life in Ladakh during winter is challenging. Although this season has been relatively dry with little snowfall so far, we anticipate the closure of roads connecting Ladakh to the rest of the country once heavy snowfall begins. These roads typically remain closed for five months. Despite these challenges, the library provides a warm haven for intellectual growth, particularly during the academic season.

Today marks the last working day of our school before the winter holidays. Rainbow School will remain closed from December 1, 2024, until the end of February 2025 due to extreme cold and restricted mobility caused by snowfall. While the school building is not equipped with heating facilities, our office will remain operational to ensure uninterrupted communication.”

Once again, thank you for your invaluable contribution. Your support has made a lasting impact on our school and students.