From Shy Mongolian Boy to Community Leader: How a Sponsor Changed a Life

Mongolia, a land steeped in history and legend, is often remembered for its vast wind-swept pastures, the iconic round face of Genghis Khan on the map, and folk songs echoing with the sounds of cows and sheep. Yet beneath these romantic images lies a nation still grappling with poverty and hardship. Since gaining independence from China in 1911 and embracing democracy in 1992, Mongolia has made progress, but many of its people remain trapped in poverty. According to the Asian Development Bank, over 21% of Mongolians live below the national poverty line, and tragically, nearly 2% of newborns do not survive their first year.

Among those born into this difficult reality was Bombi, a boy whose life would take a remarkable turn thanks to the kindness of strangers thousands of kilometers away in Hong Kong.

A Childhood Marked by Struggle and Shyness

Bombi’s early years were defined by scarcity and silence. His family, struggling with unemployment and poverty, survived by growing vegetables around their home, barely enough to feed themselves. School seemed a distant luxury, and Bombi was a shy, quiet child who rarely spoke or engaged with others. "Physically and mentally, I experienced many ups and downs," he recalls.

Everything began to change when Bombi became a sponsored child through an international aid organization supported by donors in Hong Kong. This sponsorship opened the door to education, allowing Bombi to attend school regularly for the first time. Although still shy, Bombi's world started to expand. By high school, as his family’s financial situation improved, his personality began to blossom. He became more confident, more cheerful, and more engaged, not only academically, but also socially.

Despite jokingly admitting he was “a bad influence” among his friends, Bombi worked hard and excelled in school. He earned a scholarship from World Vision, the organization supporting his community, and successfully graduated from university.

Dreams Evolve, Purpose Emerges

Bombi’s dreams shifted over time. As a child, he wanted to be a singer, inspired by the family band he sang in during junior high. Later, watching his brother pursue a career in medicine, Bombi considered becoming a doctor. But his true calling emerged after university, driven by gratitude and a desire to give back.

“I have never met my sponsor,” Bombi shares with a smile, “but I am deeply grateful for her kindness. I want to extend that good deed.” This gratitude led him to pursue a Master’s degree in Family Ministry and to join World Vision Mongolia as a Communications Officer. Today, he is responsible for six rural Area Development Programs (ADPs), where he mentors young students, teaching them how to be reporters, conduct interviews, and create videos—skills that empower youth to tell their own stories and build confidence.

Beyond technical skills, Bombi helps schools create child-friendly environments, trains teachers in child protection and participation, and promotes overall child well-being. Thanks to the long-term efforts of World Vision Hong Kong and local partners, the lives of tens of thousands of children have steadily improved.

A Father’s Commitment: Cherishing Childhood

Now a husband and father of two young boys, aged two years and eleven months, Bombi faces the universal challenge of balancing work and family. His job requires frequent travel, sometimes leaving him away from home for days. But despite exhaustion, he insists on spending quality time with his children, determined not to miss the fleeting moments of their early years.

“Childhood happens only once,” he says. “I want my children to live like emperors, to cry, shout, and play freely because this time is precious.” This belief fuels his commitment to being present and nurturing a joyful, whole childhood for his sons.

Three Skills for Life: Art, Sports, and Language

Bombi is not only a community leader but also an artist, singer, composer, and amateur basketball coach. These passions shape his vision for his children’s education. He stresses the importance of cultivating three essential skills during childhood that will serve them for life: artistic expression (such as music, painting, and dance), sports, and language.

He views parents as the closest coaches and urges them to seize the opportunity to nurture these talents early on. “Children need to feel their lives are full and valuable,” Bombi explains. These skills not only enrich personal development but also prepare children to navigate and contribute to the world confidently.

A Hope for the Future

When asked about his hopes for his sons, Bombi’s answer is heartfelt and open: “I don’t want to force them to follow any path. They must have their own will and live their lives. But my greatest wish is that they grow up to serve their community, just as I was given a chance to do.”

From a shy boy who once hid in silence, Bombi has grown into a confident leader, lighting the way for others. His story is a testament to the transformative power of compassion, opportunity, and the belief that every child deserves a whole, meaningful childhood.