Lyla Kolman – Chair

Lyla Kolman is a social worker committed to community building, social justice, and reforming the legal system. She holds a Master of Social Work from Columbia School of Social Work, where she specialized in forensic social work. Currently, Lyla serves as a criminal defense social worker at The Bronx Defenders and brings prior experience as a preschool teacher and substance use treatment case manager. She believes strongly in the wisdom and strength of communities and is honored to serve as Chair of the NYTSC Board.

Maimouna Siby – Secretary

Maimouna Siby is a Creative Strategist at Google with a background in brand marketing and creative strategy. Her expertise spans marketing, technology, and communications, and she brings a deep commitment to advancing equity for historically underserved communities. As a first-generation Malian-American, Maimouna understands the challenges immigrant families face and is dedicated to helping broaden the reach and impact of NYTSC’s programs. She is excited to support NYTSC in expanding its initiatives and strengthening its role in the community.

Languages: English, French, and Bambara

Tenzing Pasang

Co-Treasurer

Tenzing Pasang is a Licensed Master Social Worker and currently a Medical Social Worker at Forest Hills Hospital. A former U.S. Marine, he brings discipline, resilience, and dedication to service into his social work practice. His professional experience includes supporting immigrant communities, student veterans, and at-risk youth through case management, advocacy, and trauma-informed care. Tenzing previously worked at NYTSC as a Social Services Coordinator during the pandemic, providing critical support to community members navigating benefits and resources. His work with NYTSC has strengthened his commitment to culturally responsive service.

Tenzin Kyisarh

Co-Treasurer

Tenzin Kyisarh is the Senior UX Lead at FactSet Research Systems Inc., where she focuses on creating meaningful and accessible user experiences. She graduated from Wesleyan University with degrees in Anthropology and International Relations, and later received a Fulbright Scholarship to Thailand. Her professional background includes non-profit work, social media strategy, and digital communications. Having previously taught English and designed communication assets for NYTSC, Tenzin brings both personal connection and professional expertise to her role on the Board.

Languages: Tibetan, Hindi, Nepali, Thai, Korean, and English

Tenzin Nyandak

Board Member

Tenzin Nyandak is the founder and principal of Studio Nyandak Architecture and Engineering, an interdisciplinary design firm based in New York City and Dharamsala. Trained as both an architect and structural engineer, he specializes in architecture, structural engineering, historic preservation, and research on Tibetan and Himalayan architectural traditions. Tenzin is dedicated to safeguarding cultural heritage while mentoring the next generation of architects and engineers. He brings his expertise and passion for community-centered design to his role on the NYTSC Board.

Languages: Tibetan, English, and Hindi

Advisory Members

Trusted experts who provide guidance and support to NYTSC, without serving on the governing board.

Tenzin Wangyal, Esq. – Legal Advisor

Tenzin Wangyal, Esq., of the Law Offices of Tenzin Wangyal, PLLC, serves as an Advisory Member for NYTSC. While not a member of the Board of Directors, he provides legal guidance and connects the organization with valuable resources to support the Tibetan and Himalayan community in New York. His expertise and commitment help strengthen NYTSC’s ability to serve effectively and responsibly.

Languages: English, Tibetan, Nepali, Hindi/Urdu, and basic Spanish

Dawa Bhuti – Parent Outreach

Dawa Bhuti has been connected with NYTSC for over 10 years, first as a parent of a Tibetan Sunday School student and now as a valued community advisor. She provides guidance and outreach support, helping the organization connect with families and community members. Dawa has been an essential volunteer, including during the COVID-19 lockdown when she supported the new social services department, and continues to assist at events and initiatives.

Languages: Tibetan, English, Hindi, and Nepali