Speaker Profile
Ven Shih Chao-Hwei
Chao-Hwei, Professor at Hsuan-Chuang University, led social movements, founded Life Conservationist Association, and played a key role in wildlife protection legislation.
Nakao Shihou 釋史峰 Shaku Shihou.
Nakao Shihou, born in 1951, studied Shin Buddhism at Ryukoku University, specializing in Jodo Shinshu. Ordained in 1975, he dedicated himself to the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji sect, working at Nishi Hongwanji Temple from 1977.
Carlo LUYCKX
President of the Belgian Buddhist Union since 2014.
Vice-President of the European Buddhist Union(EBU) since 2023. EBU Representative to the European Union since 2021. President of Karmapa Foundation Europe since 2022.
Ven. Dhitisampanno Mahathera
Having earned a Bachelor's degree in Dharma Acharya from Smaratungga Buddhist College in 2004, followed by a Master's degree and Doctoral degree in Buddhist Studies from Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University in 2012 and 2018, respectively.
Dr. TSEWANG GYALPO ARYA
Tsewang Gyalpo Arya is the Representative of the Liaison office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama for Japan and East Asia. Before this he served as the Secretary of the Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) and Director of the Tibet Policy Institute (TPI) of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Dharamshala, India.
Ven Kum Gang
Ven Kum Gang is a Acarya committee chair at Jogye Order, Jung-Ang Sangha University Professor, Buddhist Central Library Director and former Dalai Lama visit promoter in Korea.
Ven. Dr. Karma Tashi Choedron
Ven. Dr. Karma Tashi Choedron, ordained in 2009 by Venerable Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, is a śrāmaṇerikā. Trained as a civil engineer, she holds a Ph.D. in Environment and Resource Studies and an M.A. in Buddhist Studies.
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Venerable Bhikkhu Nandisena
Venerable Bhikkhu Nandisena, born in Argentina, is a Theravāda Buddhist monk and the abbot of Dhamma Vihāra in Mexico. Ordained in 1991, he serves as the Spiritual Director for Buddhismo Theravāda México/Hispano A.R
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Ven. Mahawela Rathanapala Thero
Ven. Mahawela Rathanapala Thero is a visiting Lecturer, Post graduate institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka and a Visiting Lecturer, Dept. of Pali and Buddhist Studies, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Prof. Wangchuk Dorjee Negi
Prof. Wangchuk Dorjee Negi is currently the Vice Chancellor (Addl. Charge) of the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath, Varanasi. He is a Professor of Indian Buddhist Philosophy at CIHTS. His research interest includes Buddhist Tantraand Buddhist Hermeneutics.
Ven. Dr. Ratneswar Chakma
Ven. Dr. Ratneswar Chakma, a remarkable individual with a diverse range of accomplishments and a passion for personal growth and spiritual development. Born on the 1stof November, 1983, in the enchanting State of Tripura, a tiny lush greenery State of India, Ven. Dr. Ratneswar Chakma is the sixth sibling among eight in his family.
Ven. Prof. Pallekande Rathanasara Thero
Ven. P. Rathanasara, PhD, former university lecturer, president of National Peace Council, and chair of international Buddhist committees promoting harmony and peace.
Rev. Inui Ryunin
Born in Osaka in 1952, Inui Ryunin studied esoteric Buddhism at Koyasan University. Joining the faculty in 1984, he served as a professor of Esoteric Buddhism until March 2021.
Ven. Phramaha Amornwit Yimkem
Wat Nyanavessakavan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from Mahidol University, Thailand, in 2014. With a focus on holistic care for Buddhist psychology, Wat Nyanavessakavan serves as an instructor in primary to higher education. Notable contributions include teaching "SITT 202 Happiness in Life, Work, and Career" in the Applied Thai Traditional Medicine Program and leading extra-curricular Dhamma training for students in the same program. Additionally, Wat Nyanavessakavan provides holistic care, offering training to academic staff within the Applied Thai Traditional Medicine Program.
Professor Geshe Ngawang Samten
Born on July 7, 1956 at Dokhar in Central Tibet, Professor Geshe Ngawang Samten came to India along with his parents after the Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1959. He studied at the Central School for Tibetans in Chandragiri, Orissa, and thereafter at the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies at Sarnath.
Yangten Rinpoche
Yangten Rinpoche was born in Kham, Tibet in 1978. He was recognised as a tulku aged 10, and enthroned at Kandze Monstery. In 1990, at the unusually young age of 12, he entered the Geshe program at Sera Mey Monastery and graduated with a Geshe Lharampa degree (with distinction) in 2007, aged only 29.
Ven. Prof. Miriswatte Wimalagnana Thero
Ven. Prof. M. Wimalagnana, Head of Buddhist Culture at Kelaniya's Postgraduate Institute, served in Sri Lankan universities, awarded Best Young Researcher, demonstrating commitment to Buddhist studies and academia.
Ven. Bodhipalo Mahathero
•Founder President Lokuttara Mahavihar, Maharashtra, India
•Chairman: Takshashila Buddha Vihar, Ludhiyana , Punjab
•Anusanghanayaka of All India Bhikku Sangha, Gaya, Bihar
Phra Panot Isarasakul
Ven. Phra Panot Isarasakul, ordained in 2007, holds an M.A. in Buddhist Studies, pursued Abhidhamma studies, and received Dhamma education. With a background in Water Resources Engineering, he blends both worlds.
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Angkana Apichartvorakit, Ph.D
Angkana Apichartvorakit, with a Doctorate in Applied Thai Traditional Medicine from Mahidol University (2022), previously earned an M.S. in Anatomy (2013) and a B.A. in Applied Thai Traditional Medicine (2010) from the same institution.
Bhikkhu Abhipunno
Bhikkhu Abhipunno ordained as aTheravādin monk on January 27th, 2013 at the age of 21 at Wat Ratana Wanaram in Phayao province, northern Thailand under the DhammayutikaNikāya sect.
Geshe Lodoe Sanpo
Geshe Lodoe Sanpo, born in Tibet, fled to India in 1992. He earned a Geshe Lharamapa degree in 2018, studied Tantric spirituality, and pursued science education at Emory University. Currently, he oversees science education and supervises a research project at Gaden Jangtse monastery.
Geshe Lobsang Nima
Born in Tibet, Geshe Lobsang Nima fled Chinese-occupied Tibet, obtaining a Geshe Lharampa in Buddhist philosophy. He studied tantra, taught globally, and held roles at Drepung Loseling Monastic University. In 2022, he taught Secular Ethics at the University of Minnesota, now serving as a teacher in a monastery.
Venerable Thubten Chodron
Venerable Thubten Chodron, ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun in 1977, holds a B.A. in History. She founded Sravasti Abbey, a Tibetan monastery in the U.S. She teaches globally and collaborates on a series with the Dalai Lama, emphasizing interfaith dialogue and prison work.
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Ven Dr Upanand Thero
Bhikkhu Dr. Upanand Thero, born July 14, 1982, is a distinguished Buddhist monk with a LL.B. and a Ph.D. in History. Serving as an Assistant Professor and General Secretary of the Youth Buddhist Society, he actively promotes Buddhism through talks, conferences, and training camps. His academic achievements include a UGC National Fellowship and NET-UGC qualification in Pali. Honored by the Dalai Lama and Mahabodhi Society, he's authored books on Buddhism and engages in global social activities, coordinating Buddhist efforts in various countries since his ordination in 1992.
Suebpong Chatdharmmaluck
Suebpong Chatdharmmaluck, holding an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Chulalongkorn University and certification in Buddhist Counseling, is a Counseling Psychologist at Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Also, they contribute as a co-lecturer in the Buddhist Counseling Course at Mahachulalongkornrajavidayala University.
Ven. Snr. Prof. Kandegoda Wimaladhamma Mahanayaka Thero
Venerable Senior Professor Kandegoda Wimaladhamma Mahanayaka Thero, born in Sri Lanka, ordained in 1965, earned a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Ioannina. A distinguished academic, he achieved Senior Professor status in 2013 and received titles within the Amarapura MahaNikaya, highlighting his exemplary service to Buddhism.
Ven. Dr. Ashin Sobita
Ven. Dr. Ashin Sobita follows the Buddhist religion and is proficient in Myanmar and English languages. His qualifications include a Sāsanadhajadhammācariya, M.A., and Ph.D. He boasts eight years of teaching experience across various Buddhist universities. He has attended numerous conferences locally and visited India, specifically Bodhgaya, approximately eleven years ago.
Lama Choedak Rinpoche
Lama Choedak Rinpoche, a devoted Tibetan Buddhist, underwent extensive monastic study and a solitary retreat. Founder of the Tibetan Buddhist Society of Canberra, he leads globally, recognized as a heart-son of H.E. Kyabje Chogye Trichen. An influential post-graduate scholar and author, Rinpoche teaches online to a broad audience from Canberra.
Ven Dr. Tenzin Nyima
Ven. Dr. Tenzin Nyima (Vidya Kumar) is a distinguished scholar with a Ph.D. in 'Critical Analysis on Relation of Body and Mind from Buddhist Perspective.' With a rich educational journey, he excels in Buddhist philosophy, psychology, and linguistics. An accomplished translator and lecturer, he contributes significantly to academia, currently teaching at CIHTS, Sarnath
Rev Ryokyu Endo
Ryokyu Endo was born in Tokyo, Japan, and lived in New York City as a child. He is Chief Priest of Wada
Temple (Japan), founder of Tao Shiatsu, musician, and peace activist, among many other callings. Reverend Endo has written eight books translated into seven languages and released six CDs with a major record company still played on radio and television in Japan and other countries.
Ven. Dhammavuddho
Ven. Dhammavuddho is part of the Pembina Yayasan Buddha Peduli Pendidikan while being the
Chief Of Association Buddhist Tour Operator Region Indonesia (ABTO).
Geshe Thabkhe
Ordained at 10, excelling in Buddhist philosophy, Tenzin Gyatso scholar, studied science at Emory and conducted brain research at Northwestern. Teaching at Sera Jey since 2013, exploring monastic debate impacts.
Ven. Phra Patipol Srewarom
Ven. Phra Patipol Srewarom, a Thammasat University graduate, is the Head of Innovation in Dhamma Media at Wat Nyannavesakavan. He instructs in holistic care, Buddhist psychology, and SITT 202 Happiness in Life. Engaged in academic training, he facilitates board games and conducts Buddhist counseling.
Darunee Rattanawongsamathakul
Dr. Rattanawongsamathakul holds a Doctorate in Applied Thai Traditional Medicine and a Ph.D. from Mahidol University, Thailand. Specializing in Thai Traditional Medicine, she serves as the Head of Ayurved Clinic Center at Siriraj Hospital and contributes to research on COVID-19 prevention and Thai Traditional Medicine practices in conferences and publications.
Ven. Ja Hong
Ven. Ja Hong (慈弘) is a prominent figure in the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, affiliated with the main temple Song-gwang-sa. Notably, he is a Buddhist web-cartoonist and serves as the Buddhist Creator of the Dharma Propagation Division. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Seon Buddhism Studies at Dongguk University, Ja Hong contributes significantly to the intersection of Buddhism and modern media.
Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchub Choeden
Geshe Jangchup Choeden Shartse Khensur Rinpoche was trained in Gaden Shartse Monastery and graduated as a Geshe Lharampa. Later he received advanced degree of Geshe Ngagrampa from Gyuto Tantric University. He studied under many great eminent Tibetan masters, including H. H. The Dalai Lama.
Ven. Dr. Ashin Nandaka
Currently serving as the Vice Chancellor of IBPU International Buddhist Pali University in Myanmar, and holding the title of President of Dhamma School Foundation in Yangon Division, their expertise lies in Dhammacariya with a comprehensive academic background comprising B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. They have authored three papers and published six books in Myanmar, including one in English.
Ven Ashin Sarana
Buddhist monk Ashin Sarana, ordained in 2012, holds a BA in Sri Lanka. With extensive study and meditation experience, he teaches worldwide, currently focusing on Buddhist practice and meditation in Hanoi. Proficient in multiple languages, he contributes globally to Buddhism's understanding and practice.
Prof. Ven. Medagampitiye Vijithadhamma Thero
From June 2017 to July 2020, they held the position of Chairperson for the Board of Humanities at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka. Additionally, they served as a Temporary Lecturer in the Department of Pali & Buddhist Studies at the University of Peradeniya from December 2005 to November 2009.
Geshe Sonam Wangden
Born in Tibet, he sought refuge in India in 1992, enrolling at Sera Jey Secondary School. After six years, he joined the first CBSE batch in 1998, continuing his studies. Entering Sera Jey Monastic University in April 1998, he dedicated 18 years to Buddhist philosophy, completing the six-year Gelug exam for LharamGeshe in 2020. In 2021, he joined Gyudmed Tantric University, excelling as a top-three rank holder each year from 1992 to 2021, with a few exceptions.
Most Venerable Thich Quang Ba
Born in 1955, Venerable Thich Quang Ba dedicated his life to Buddhism, facing adversity in Vietnam. A global advocate for engaged Buddhism, he played key roles in ordinations and humanitarian efforts, raising millions to aid victims and spreading Dhamma and compassion through extensive teaching tours.
Prof. Ven. Lenagala Siriniwasa Thero
Ven. Lenagala Siriniwasa Thero, with a First Class B.A. (Hons) from the University of Kelaniya, earned a Master's from the University of Delhi and a Ph.D. from Banaras Hindu University. An accomplished author, he currently serves as the Head of Sanskrit Department at the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka.
Geshema Tenzin Lhadron
Geshema Tenzin Lhadron, born in Ladakh, India, received teachings and Kalachakra Initiation from His Holiness the Dalai Lama at 13. Inspired, she journeyed to Dharamshala to study the essence of Buddha's teachings on Wisdom and Compassion, guided by reason and logic.
Ven. Phramaha Khunpon Klaysuwan (Samacitto)
At 35, ordained for 13 years from Wat Phanachoeng Varavihara monastery, Thailand, specializing in Buddhism, Pali language, meditation, and philosophy. Currently, serves as a Vipassana instructor for the Sangha in Ayutthaya Province and the Vipassana Institute at Mahachula Buddhist University.
Ven. Prof. Dr. Candamukha
Born in 1974 in Yangon, Myanmar, Ven. Prof. Dr. Candamukha received monk ordination in 1994. With degrees in Buddhist studies and a Ph.D. in Buddha Dhamma, he has been a professor at the International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University since 2003.
Sermey Khenrinpoche Tashi Tsering
Venerable Khenrinpoche Geshe Tashi Tsering was appointed the 91st abbot of Sera Mey Monastery by his Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2018. Prior to this, he was the resident teacher at Jamyang Buddhist Centre London for 24 years.
Gaden Shartse Ven Yulting Tulku
Yulting Tulku, born in Nepal in 1994, recognized as a reincarnation, began Buddhist studies at 7 in GadenShartse Monastery. Achieving various certificates in Buddhist philosophy, he has made notable academic strides.
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Ven Ashin Theravamsa
Serving as the Principal of Diparaṅga International Pali School and an Assistant Lecturer at the International Theravāda Buddhist Missionary University in Yangon, Myanmar, their academic expertise encompasses Sasanadhajadhammācariya, holding B.A, M.A, and pursuing a Ph.D. with a thesis focus.
Geshe Ngawang Sonam
Geshe Ngawang Sonam completed primary education at Upper TCV School before dedicating over 20 years to intensive Buddhist studies at Sera Monastic University. Awarded the Geshe Lharampa degree in 2019, he serves as a translator for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and works in His Office, also engaging in conferences as a representative of the Nalanda Buddhist tradition.
Rev. Jokan Ono
Jokan Ono was born in 1986 in Tokyo. He got ordained when he was 10 years old at Mt. Hiei, the head temple of the Tendai sect in Japan. After entering Waseda University he practiced esoteric Buddhism practice at the age of 20 at Mt. Hiei and completed the program to become the official Tendai monk.
Tempa Tsering
Tempa Tsering, born in Tibet in 1950, became a Tibetan Refugee after the Chinese invasion in 1959. An alumnus of Dr. Grahams Homes and graduate of Madras Christian College, he was elected to the Central Executive Committee of the Tibetan Youth Congress and served as its advisor.
Mr. Pari Jinpa Gyatso
Coordinator - Southeast Asia Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Telo Tulku Rinpoche
Born in the U.S. in 1972, Telo Tulku Rinpoche expressed his wish to be a monk at 4. Recognized as the reincarnation of Tilopa, he studied at Drepung Gomang Monastery.
Ven. V. Vajiramedhi
Venerable Phramedhivajirodom, appointed as "UNHCR’s Patron for Peace and Compassion" in 2018, is a Thai individual committed to promoting world peace through various roles, including with the UNHCR.
Ven. B. Sri Saranankara Nayaka Maha Thero
Born in 1953, Ven. B. Sri Saranankara Nayaka Maha Thero became a novice monk in 1965 under Ven. Sumanjothi Maha Thera. Ordained at 22, he earned a "Diploma in Buddhist Philosophy" from Vidyodaya Buddhist Institution, Sri Lan
Geshe Jamyang Norbu
Born in 1968, Geshe Jamyang Norbu became a novice monk at 13, studying under Guru Lobsang Samten. He obtained the highest degree, Geshe Lharampa, in 2005, and has been teaching Buddhism and Tibetan language, specializing in Tantric texts, across Asia for 15 years.