On 24th November 2024, BLIA NZ South Island attended the annual awards ceremony organized by the Samadhi Sri Lankan Temple’s Cultural and Language School (SLLCS) at the Lincoln Events Centre. Invited by Ven. Makuldeniye Somarathana (Bhante Soma), the event was attended by nearly 250 participants, including 80 students, parents and distinguished guests such as representatives from Canterbury Business and Commerce. BLIA South Island was represented by President Bernie SIEW and committee member Elsa Hayes.
The ceremony included a lamp-lighting ritual, traditional dance performances, a review of the year’s activities, teacher recognition awards and remarks from parent representatives.
President Bernie, delivered a speech expressing gratitude for the Sri Lankan community’s contributions to culture and education on behalf of FGS NZ Abbess Manshin. He encouraged students to stay dedicated to preserving their cultural heritage and presented awards to outstanding students as a special guest.
As a gesture of goodwill, President Siew presented copies of 366 Days with Wisdom by the FGS Founding Master, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, to the school and the Samadhi Temple on behalf of the Temple. The donation aimed to inspire the community with the wisdom and to foster spiritual growth.