On 26th October 2024, BLIA Young Adult Division (YAD) NZ held a Consensus Seminar. The YADs were honoured to have Abbess Manshin of Fo Guang Shan New Zealand attending to guide the session. More than 20 BLIA youth members attended and explored the theme, Enhancing Inner Strength. The seminar aimed to help young participants build resilience and problem-solving skills by discovering ways to cultivate inner calm and manage workplace challenges.
Committee member Alan began by guiding participants through mindfulness meditation, helping them focus on body posture and mindful breathing to quiet the mind and appreciate the present moment. Committee member Thomas, led a talk on handling life’s unpredictability, emphasising the power of positive thinking. Drawing on personal experiences, he illustrated how humour can ease tense workplace interactions and promote mutual understanding.
Abbess Manshin shared wisdom from Fo Guang Shan Monastery’s Founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, advising youths to prioritise Buddhism, the Temple and the community, while serving others with right action, right speech and right thought. She encouraged them to pursue their dreams courageously in their youth, and to face their limitations with a spirit of growth, thus enhancing their inner strength and self-worth with the support of Buddhist teachings.
Participant Yvonne shared that the seminar taught her to manage emotions and stay focused on life goals, reducing overthinking in uncertainty. Another attendee, Miuler, expressed gratitude for the practical tools she learned to manage daily anxieties and face personal growth challenges with greater confidence. The seminar concluded on a warm, positive note, with participants leaving with valuable insights and a commitment to apply what they had learned in their personal and professional lives for a harmonious balance of body and mind.