Wangchuck’s Journey of Woodworking and Empowerment in Babesa

Early mornings in Babesa, a quaint place, come alive with the rhythmic symphony of hammers and chisels, as 24 ambitious youths, led by the talented Wangchuk, embark on a journey of transforming ordinary wood into extraordinary works of art.

For Wangchuk and his team of carpenters, the day begins long before the sun graces the horizon. At 9 AM, while most people are still tucked away in their beds, they gather at their workshop, which stands like a hidden gem amidst the lush greenery. The workshop buzzes with excitement and creativity as each artisan takes their place, ready to bring life to their ideas.

Wangchuk, a seasoned carpenter with a passion for craftsmanship, has been honing his skills for over a decade. His expertise ranges from intricate furniture design to awe-inspiring wood carvings. With his infectious enthusiasm and dedication to the craft, he has become a mentor for the youth in the community, inspiring them to pursue their dreams.

As the sun gradually paints the sky with hues of orange and pink, Wangchuk addresses his young apprentices, setting the tone for the day. “In each piece of wood, there lies a story waiting to be told. Let us channel our creativity and passion into every stroke of our tools, and together, we shall create masterpieces that will be cherished for generations,” he declares, igniting a fire of determination in the eyes of the youth.

Their work is not merely a routine job; it is an amalgamation of love and artistry.

Wangchuck, born and raised in the serene village of Japu in Wangdue Phodrang, inherited his love for woodworking from his great-grandparents. With woodworking deeply embedded in his family’s heritage, he learned the art from his late father, who was a revered expert in the field. From a young age, Wangchuck’s heart was captivated by the allure of wood, and he found solace and joy in transforming raw timber into intricate pieces of art.

His passion for woodworking blossomed into a lifelong pursuit, and he further honed his skills at the esteemed National Institute for Zorig Chusum, where he received comprehensive training in traditional arts and crafts. Working in various woodworking companies after his training allowed him to gain invaluable knowledge and experience, shaping him into the skilled artisan he is today.

In 2015, with unwavering determination and the desire to be self-reliant, Wangchuck started his own woodworking venture as a side business. Single-handedly, he meticulously carved and painted each piece of woodwork, pouring his heart and soul into every creation. But as he toiled away, he began to see the struggles of others around him. It dawned on him that his woodworking venture could not only support him but also provide employment opportunities to those in need.

With a compassionate heart and a vision for empowering the underprivileged youth, Wangchuck expanded his business, bringing onboard 24 young and aspiring woodworkers. Among them, 12 displayed remarkable talent and excellent hand-eye coordination. Recognizing the potential within these young minds, Wangchuck not only provided them with stable career opportunities but also decided to personally mentor and work alongside them.

“When we stand together and support one another, we grow as a whole,” Wangchuck often tells his team. His focus on addressing the challenges faced by his employees has created a sense of unity and camaraderie within the workshop. This supportive environment not only fosters creativity and skill development but also instills a strong work ethic in the young woodworkers, benefitting both the company and its employees.

As Radak Puensum Traditional Woodwork enters its eighth year of operation, it stands as a testament to Wangchuck’s unwavering dedication and his belief in the potential of young individuals. His workshop has become a symbol of hope, where dreams are nurtured and transformed into tangible masterpieces.

When asked about the advice he would offer to aspiring entrepreneurs, Wangchuck responds with wisdom earned through his own journey: “Face your challenges head-on and take action. Believe in yourself and your dreams. With focus, determination, and hard work, you can achieve anything.”

As a child, Wangchuk would often sit by his father’s side, mesmerized by the artistry of his carving. The intricate patterns and the stories they held fascinated him. His father, recognizing his son’s passion, became his first mentor, passing on the skills and knowledge that would shape Wangchuk’s life’s work.

“My father’s guidance was invaluable. He taught me not just the technical aspects of woodworking, but also the philosophy and the significance of preserving our heritage,” Wangchuk recalls with gratitude.

Today, Radak Puensum Traditional Woodwork is more than a workshop; it is a nurturing space where Wangchuk takes on the role of a mentor, fostering the talents of 24 enthusiastic young craftsmen and craftswomen. These youths come from diverse backgrounds, and many of them hail from underprivileged homes.

“I believe in the potential of the youth, and I want to provide them with opportunities to discover their talents and grow,” Wangchuk explains.

Under his guidance, the young apprentices learn the art of woodworking from its very essence – from selecting the right type of wood to crafting intricate designs, and finally, giving life to these creations through their skilled hands. But beyond technical skills, Wangchuk also imparts life lessons and values to his mentees – the importance of perseverance, the joy of creating art, and the responsibility of preserving their cultural heritage.

Wangchuck’s story is not just one of a skilled artisan crafting woodwork but also of an individual using his passion to uplift the lives of others. His journey serves as an inspiring reminder that with a compassionate heart and a strong sense of purpose, one can shape not only wood but also the destinies of those around them.

In Babesa, the symphony of hammers and chisels harmonizes with the sound of empowerment, all thanks to the vision and dedication of Wangchuck and his team at Radak Puensum Traditional Woodwork.

“I’m proud to see the transformation in these young individuals,” Wangchuk beams. “Through their work, they carry forward the legacy of our ancestors while crafting a brighter future for themselves.”

By Tendrel Zangmo