Ruby Hammond Memorial Scholarship Recipient, Tibetan refugee student, Tenzin Zomkyi
Ruby Hammond, was creative and academic, and had begun studying a Health Sciences degree. She cared deeply about social justice and volunteered with Blue Mountains Refugee Support Group (BMRSG). Tragically, for her family and many friends , she died within a few days of a sudden illness.
Ruby was very special, and it was important her memory be honoured. A GiveNow fundraiser was set up by her boyfriend, Jarrah Dance and his family. The money raised was to assist a refugee student who planned to do further education. Jarrah put all his efforts into raising funds as a tribute to Ruby, and completed a heroic marathon kayak(415km) down the Murray River. The money raised was kept in the BMRSG GiveNow Fund until disbursed.
On Friday 2nd August 2024 a presentation of $5,000 was made to Tibetan refugee, Tenzin Zomkyi who plans to study and qualify as a dentist.
Zomkyi’s parents escaped from Tibet across the Himalayas with no travel documents and eventually arrived in India as refugees. Three years later UNHCR recommended them for humanitarian visas with the Australian Government. Zomkyi arrived in Sydney aged 18 months and the family moved to Katoomba in 2015. After gaining her HSC last year Zomkyi is completing a Dental Nurse certificate course in TAFE before starting university in health science which will lead to a dental degree.
The presentation was at Tribe Café Blaxland with Ruby’s parents Elizabeth and Paul and sister, Maya, along with Jarrah, his parents Carolyn and Brian, his sisters Jess & Chloe. Ruby’s great aunt and Nan also came together with Pat Rayner and Leona Kieran from BMRSG.
Zomkyi’s father, Lobsang Tenchung, brought Tibetan Khatas (traditional white scarves) which Zomkyi offered to everyone there who had participated in Ruby’s memorial scholarship. She thanked each of them and explained the khatas symbolised auspicious blessings for them.
This was an emotional event for all.
Zomkyi and the families will keep in touch. Zomkyi is hoping to work as a dental nurse while she continues her studies. The fund is intended to provide eligible candidates like Zomkyi with support to begin and continue their education.
In Memory of Ruby Hammond 2002 -2021
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