Policy Fellow
Immigrant Families, Tax & Budget
Hometown
Bronxville, New York
What was the most valuable lesson you learned as a child, and how has it influenced your life today?
My mom always emphasized the importance of being compassionate, kind, and welcoming. I think that’s helped me both form community and become a better community member.
What was your favorite meal or dish that your family would make, and do you still enjoy it today?
My mom's petse, a soupy Tibetan dish made with collard greens and beef. It's still a favorite of mine and made me the soup lover that I am today.
What advice would you give to your younger self, based on what you've learned throughout your life so far?
Don’t be afraid to be yourself, celebrate your identity, and find community that makes it easy to do that. Growing up as a Sikkimese-American in a predominantly white, Christian neighborhood, I did a lot of assimilating. It wasn’t until I moved to Providence for college that I really felt comfortable and proud to be myself. I am so grateful for the community and friends I found in Providence. Their love, acceptance and support have helped me become a more whole version of myself and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
Biography
Kunzang joined Voices for Utah Children in June 2026 as the State Policy Fellow, with a focus on immigration and safety net policy. As a queer, second-generation immigrant, she is passionate about advancing immigrant rights, strengthening support systems for families, and helping create communities where everyone feels welcomed and supported.
Before moving to Utah, Kunzang lived in Providence, Rhode Island, where she worked as a barista and earned a Master of Public Affairs and a B.A. in International and Public Affairs from Brown University. Her academic and community-based work focused on the refugee resettlement experience in the U.S. and global human rights. She also studied Arabic and worked with recently resettled Arabic-speaking refugee families in Rhode Island, experiences that strengthened her commitment to expanding immigrant access to safety net programs. At Voices for Utah Children, Kunzang is excited to continue advocating for policies that help all immigrant families thrive. Outside of work, you can find Kunzang playing, coaching, or watching ultimate frisbee, cooking an elaborate meal, or exploring the outdoors.
