Gembo

Dechen Dolkar

The Department of Tourism honoured two individuals with “The Believers” award for their dedication to the tourism sector on World Tourism Day on September 27.

The award, according to the department, symbolises unwavering commitment to promoting and preserving Bhutan’s tourism industry and landscape over many years.

One of the recipients, Gembo, a veteran tour guide and environmental advocate, was recognised for his dedication to the tourism industry and his efforts in championing Bhutan.

Since 1998, Gembo has been integrating clean-up campaigns into his guiding services, focusing on high-traffic tourist areas. Recently , he extended his efforts across 22 dzongs and 19 cremation grounds in 20 dzongkhags over 94 days, dedicating every Saturday to waste collection and raising awareness on waste management.

He said that since June 27, 2019, he promised that he would conduct a cleaning campaign every Saturday, on every holy occasion, on important global days, and on significant days in Bhutan, such as  King and Queen’s birthdays. “I will continue this commitment for the rest of my life.”

Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, he said: “I am incredibly thankful for this award. I hope it inspires many others in our country, especially those in the tourism industry, to join me in keeping Bhutan clean.”

The second recipient, the chief tourism officer of the Standards and Compliance Division, Department of Tourism, Phuntsho Gyeltshen, was honoured for his 19 years of service to the department and his contribution to the tourism sector.

Phuntsho Gyeltshen has played a pivotal role in mentoring and guiding young colleagues, encouraging them to excel and pursue their ambitions with passion and dedication.

According to the department, his commitment to nurturing the next generation of tourism professionals not only strengthened Bhutan’s tourism sector but also fostered a culture of support, excellence, collaboration, and growth within the department

He said that his motivation to mentor new colleagues stemmed from a belief that shared knowledge and guidance empowers individuals to thrive as a team.

“Every new individual brings unique potential. I believe in fostering confidence, encouraging growth, and passing forward the support I have received throughout my journey to help them achieve their personal and professional best. I will continue to support them in their pursuit of excellence,” he said.

The Director of the Department of Tourism, Damcho Rinzin, said that the award was introduced to recognise outstanding individuals for their contributions to enhancing tourism and championing Bhutan.

“These individuals are driven and committed to bringing positive changes for tourism and for Bhutan. They believe that individuals can bring change, and that change must start from oneself,” he said.

The department plans to present this award every month to encourage continued dedication within the tourism industry.