From 5th to 7th July 2024, the 26th Australia New Zealand Buddha’s Light Youth Conference (ANZBYC) took place at Fo Guang Shan Auckland Temple. This year’s conference centred on the theme Stay True to Your Initial Aspirations, featuring an interactive Q&A session led by Abbess Manshin of FGS NZ, BLIA Lay Dharma Lecturer Dr Eric Chan and Advisor Caroline Ong of BLIA Sydney Subchapter. The sessions were deeply rooted in the teachings of the Grand Master Venerable Master Hsing Yun, sharing insights on how to apply the right attitude and mindset to personal development in the areas of spiritual practice, academics and careers.
Realising Initial Aspiration through Faith
Abbess Manshin shared her journey of discovering Buddhism at age 14 through the profound truth of Cause + Conditions = Effect. Recalling her vow to keep up with the Venerable Master’s teachings during her time at the FGS Tsung Lin Buddhist College, she emphasised the importance of becoming someone who is teachable. Over her three-decade service in Australia and New Zealand, Abbess Manshin has remained committed to the Founder’s vision of providing service, sharing positive values and uplifting the community in New Zealand, appreciating the endless Dharma treasures left by the Venerable Master.
Abbess reminded the youth of the significance of holding activities at the Temple, which is a space filled with wisdom and compassion. Abbess drew an analogy to offering lights, stating that a single light can illuminate the hall when combined with others, and similarly, each person’s small contributions can collectively create significant impact.
Quoting the Most Venerable Abbot Hsin Bau of FGS Buddhist Order, Abbess Manshin emphasised that everyone should focus on meaningful practice and learning, avoiding distractions that do not enhance wisdom or address life’s essential questions. Abbess encouraged the youths to cherish their affinities, support each other and strive together for a better future, drawing strength and value from the peaceful environment of the Temple.
Rediscovering Initial Aspiration through Academics
Dr Eric Chan’s lectures spanned three days, beginning with focus on that one’s initial aspiration is found by looking inward and facing one’s true self. He highlighted the spirits of compassion, wisdom, vow, and practice exemplified by the Four Great Bodhisattvas. Dr Eric shared his journey of receiving Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s benevolence, which supported him to study at Nanhua University without tuition fees, giving him the opportunity to pursue and complete his doctorate in medicine and become a professor. Dr Eric inspired the youth by emphasising that the initial aspiration lies at the root of one’s heart, encouraging them to harness their fearlessness, sincerity and faith to give back to the many causes and acts of kindness that have shaped their lives.
During the workshops, participants engaged in group discussions to explore their insights and questions. Dr Eric addressed various concerns such as the feeling of disappointment when not recognised by others, the challenges of adversity in interpersonal relationships and the source of motivation for maintaining one’s initial aspirations. He quoted Venerable Master’s teachings: Only one who can take hardship has a bright future, reminding the youth that doing good for others stems from enduring hardships and the desire to help. Reflecting on his role as a university professor, he shared that his motivation comes from teaching the way he wished to be taught, which naturally empowers him.
Nurturing Initial Aspiration through Careers
Caroline ONG, who currently serves as a risk management director at a financial institution shared her extensive career experience in finance. With over the last 24 years of dedicated service at Fo Guang Shan, Caroline’s growth from a youth leader to a BLIA advisor illustrates the profound impact of commitment and responsibility. She recounted her first volunteer experience at the Buddha’s Birthday Celebration at Nan Tien Temple, starting in the food stall and eventually leading event planning. She emphasised Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s words, to delve deep, one must first be involved; to excel, one must first contribute, highlighting the Temple as a platform for youths to realise their potential and contribute to the community.
Participants inquired about various career aspects, including interview preparation, workplace culture, essential qualities and industry prospects. Caroline advised the youths to embrace responsibility early in their careers and to be meticulous in their work. She shared her experience of mastering office equipment maintenance and document management, which opened doors for her in the company, demonstrating that diligence in small tasks can lead to greater opportunities. She encouraged considering the broader impact of decisions and adhering to Venerable Master’s philosophy: I am one among many.