David Miliband, CEO of the International Rescue Committee accepts an award from Waterford Crystal on behalf of his organization, for its work throughout the world.Sonam Lama, 16, has become the first Nepali to take part in the New York new year's countdown at Times Square. Sonam was accompanied by two other immigrants from South Sudan to officially welcome 2015 in an event televised live around the world.
Sonam was selected by the International Rescue Committee to press the switch on the Ball Drop Countdown on Times Square. The IRC works with civilians in conflict areas and refugees, helping resettle them.
Sonam is from Nepal and said she had to leave the country in 2012 because of threats from Maoist guerrillas against her father who was a supporter of the Nepali Congress. S
She told the New York Post: "They would come in our house wearing combat gear and carrying guns and pressured my dad to support them. After my dad declined their offer, they threatened him with his life.”
Sonam was accompanied in pressing the switch by Cuban actor, Jencarlos Canela.