Buddhist Society: President

I am the current External Relations Officer for Buddhist Society and would like to continue serving our group next year, either in the same role or in another role as needed (as we would share many responsibilities anyways). I have been hard at work this year, from standing and talking to people at the Welcome Fare in September, managing our WhatsApp group chat, to attending every (except one) session so far this year as a committee member to greet newcomers and ensure that the sessions run smoothly. I have been very responsive behind the scenes—you can count on me being there. I have been doing my part in the current committee, sharing the workload and taking responsibilities as appropriate. I sincerely want our society to continue next year as a laid-back space for relaxation, reflection, discussion, and gathering. This year has been abnormal because of the late start. Next year I would like to: (1) Invite Ratnaprabha to talk to us every week, (2) Invite ad-hoc speakers from different organizations, (3) Arrange a temple or monastery visit at least every term, (4) Arrange a social event (e.g., vegan dinner out) at least every term, (5) Arrange collaborations with, e.g., Yoga Society to enrich our experience, (6) Arrange fun events like film screenings. I would like there to be more of a community feeling in the group, perhaps allowing more opportunity for us to talk in a stress-free environment. I have previous experience as President of the Fair Trade Club at my high school

It was at Buddhist Society two years ago where I first learnt to meditate, and as my practice has continued to develop I've always been grateful for that warm, wholesome, and supportive environment that started me off. Buddhist society means many different things to many different people, and I will do everything I can to support and encourage how welcoming we are as a society.

As president I want to build off our strong core Tuesday sessions, not only to include more museum and monastery visits, but also to increase the numbers of socials and collaborations with other societies. As Media Officer, I've already organised a collaboration with SAP, and will continue to strengthen our bonds with other societies. I'm also keen to see the annual buddinner return!

My key promise is the introduction of a meditation + social on Thursdays, to complement our existing meditation + discussion on Tuesdays. The introduction of a recurring social will improve the society as members will have a dedicated place to talk and get to know each other.

Thank you for reading, I hope to have your vote.

Karna