Transformative Buddhist Nun’s Leadership Training
The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC) has successfully concluded its eight-day Transformative Buddhist Nuns’ Leadership Training, held at Namkha Kyung Dzong Nunnery, Odisha, from October 3–10, 2025.
This training was conceived as a deconstructive and reflective journey, aimed at challenging conventional notions of leadership often shaped by hierarchy and authority. Instead, it sought to cultivate a transformative model of leadership grounded in nonviolence, empathy, and inclusivity. Over eight days, participants critically explored and unlearned deeply ingrained social and cultural constructs while engaging with key themes such as gender and power dynamics, sexual and gender-based violence, nonviolent communication, and conflict transformation.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Tibet Institut Rikon, Switzerland for their generous and steadfast support in making this meaningful initiative possible. Our sincere appreciation also goes to the trainers — Tenzin Tseten from the Women’s Empowerment Desk (Central Tibetan Administration), Karma Lekshay and Sonam Dechen from the Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution, Amchi Pema Choedon and our Yoga trainer Kusang Topden — whose thoughtful facilitation guided the participants through processes of deconstruction and self-awareness.
We are equally thankful to our host, Namkha Kyung Dzong Nunnery, Odisha for their partnership and warm hospitality, and to all our friends, collaborators, and supporters who contributed to making this transformative and introspective journey possible.
