At six, Monkh-Ireedui, whose name means “eternal future,” lives with his family in a white yurt on the arid plains of Dornogovi, Mongolia’s East Gobi. In this harsh steppe-desert landscape, he helps care for goats and sheep, essential for survival. Water is scarce, and each well or stream becomes a moment of relief and play. But today, nearby fluorspar mining threatens water sources and daily life. Despite these challenges, he continues to uphold his family’s traditions while finding joy in play and friendship.
