I am Thubten Drolma, a Buddhist nun currently living and studying Buddhist philosophy in Dharamsala, India. In June 2023, thanks to the kindness and generosity of ANHN, I had the opportunity to attend the 18th International Sakyadhita Conference in Seoul, Korea. The conference theme on ‘Living in a Precarious World: Impermanence, Resilience, Awakening’ deeply resonated with many of the participants, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussions centred on the fragility of life and how to cultivate a meaningful and fulfilling existence within the precariousness of life.

During the conference, some of the paper sessions and workshops celebrated the many achievements and wisdom learnt from the experiences of Buddhist women whereas others were focussed on challenges, on how we can improve the opportunities and day-to-day realities of Buddhist women around the world. Nevertheless, throughout it all, a common thread that ran through all the sessions was the undeniable presence of the deep resilience, courage, compassion, wisdom and skilful means that Buddhist women have continued to demonstrate despite challenges along the way.

One particularly impactful presentation explored how female medical workers integrated meditation and Buddhist practice to enhance patient care during the pandemic. Another highlighted the importance of preserving digital historical records of Buddhist nuns’ biographies and lineages. Other topics included engaging youth in community-based learning, addressing the ecological crisis, promoting gender equity, and fostering social engagement. There were also powerful reflections on the earliest Buddhist nuns, as told through the Therigatha verses, which continue to inspire Buddhist practitioners to this day.

A deeply moving moment of the conference was learning about the recent Gelongma full ordination event in Bhutan. It had been a year since 142 nuns from Bhutan, Northern India, and the UK received full ordination at Ramo Thangka, a sacred site linked to the Buddhist master Gelongma Palmo (an Indian princess from the 10th–11th century). Many conference attendees were brought to tears as they listened to the meaningful experiences of the newly ordained nuns and the extraordinary efforts of nuns and laywomen who made this historic event possible. This was undoubtedly one of the conference highlights.

Following the official conference, we embarked on a post-conference tour of remote Korean temples, offering us a glimpse into the daily life of Buddhist monastics in Korea. Meditation plays a central role in Korean Buddhist practice, and it was insightful to learn their unique methods and rituals. I was particularly inspired by the community-minded, and collaborative spirit of the South Korean nuns. Their communities not only support one another but also extend their efforts to uplift other Buddhist nuns’ communities worldwide. The well-organized structure of nuns’ communities in Korea was impressive, and I was grateful for the opportunity to learn about their approach to community life and Dharma practice. The South Korean nuns have also established the Korean Bhikkuni Association which focuses on empowering and supporting Buddhist nuns around the world.

Overall, I was deeply touched by the many compassionate projects led by Buddhist women worldwide. Hearing about these initiatives was an eye-opening experience, as I gained new insights into Buddhist communities that I was previously not aware of. I am immensely grateful to ANHN for making this experience possible, and I hope the inspiration and connections formed at the conference will continue to strengthen our collective efforts as Buddhist women to benefit all sentient beings.