On May 18, Fo Guang Shan Toronto Youth Buddhist Academy successfully concluded its Spring Term with a heartfelt graduation ceremony held during the temple’s Light Offering Dharma Service. The six-week program brought together fourteen youth from Canada, Mainland China, and New Zealand for an immersive journey into Buddhist etiquette, sutra study, meditation, and Humanistic Buddhist life education.

The ceremony served as both a celebration of accomplishment and a moment of reflection. Participants shared their personal experiences before an audience of over one hundred attendees, expressing deep gratitude to the Venerables for their patient guidance and to the temple community for their continued support.

Venerable Ru Zhong, Superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, presented certificates of completion and commended the students for their dedication. She encouraged the youth to continue their exploration of the Dharma and even consider monastic life as a meaningful way to carry forward the Buddha’s teachings. A program recap video was also presented, highlighting key curriculum elements such as mindfulness meditation, Dharma instrument practice, cooking classes, temple service, and the study of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s philosophy of Humanistic Buddhism.

Students spoke of their inner transformation through the program. Fiona Liu shared how meditation brought her inner peace and self-acceptance, while Michelle Zhou emphasized the importance of compassion in daily interactions. Melissa Grenier expressed joy at learning how to use Dharma instruments and chant hymns, which gave her a greater appreciation for Buddhist rituals.

Other reflections focused on personal growth through mindfulness and self-discipline. Nancy Huang spoke about freeing herself from external expectations by acting with inner kindness. Daniel Wu recalled how the group handled challenges with cooperation and understanding rather than criticism, an embodiment of true compassion. Danny Zhang, who once struggled with harsh speech, shared how mantra chanting helped him purify his thoughts and language.

Golden Wu emphasized that true cultivation lies in staying mindful in daily life. Tom Tao likened Buddhist practice to a marathon, requiring continuous learning and self-awareness. Oliver Wang summarized the experience as one of connection, discipline, and discovery, encouraging more youth to join and walk the path of Dharma.

As the Youth Buddhist Academy looks ahead to future terms, its mission endures: to nurture wisdom, compassion, and spiritual friendship among youth, and to inspire a new generation to live the values of Humanistic Buddhism.