黃恵琳 Ellen Wong
2024-10-06
Ellen Wong, a longstanding member of the Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) and an Elder Advisor for the BLIA Sydney Prajna Subchapter, reflects on her journey with Nan Tien Temple since her teenage years. Originally from Taiwan and later Malaysia, Ellen recounts how her family's Buddhist values influenced her path. Her early experiences, including participation in youth camps and the first youth-led Buddhist events, laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to the temple. Her engagement with Nan Tien Temple has provided her with invaluable skills in leadership, community-building, and personal growth, reinforcing her commitment to Humanistic Buddhism and the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun.
Throughout the interview, Ellen emphasises her role in organising and managing major temple events, including the Buddha's Birthday Festival, the Australia and New Zealand Buddhist Youth Conference (ANZBYC), etc. She describes the importance of upholding the temple's values in these activities, blending Buddhist traditions with contemporary cultural elements to foster harmony and peace. Her work has not only deepened her Buddhist practice but has also influenced her professional life, teaching her adaptability, compassion, and resilience. Ellen's approach to event management has matured over the years, now focused on offering younger BLIA members the same growth opportunities she once received.
Ellen reflects on Venerable Master Hsing Yun's enduring influence, particularly his teachings on the "Three Acts of Goodness" and the "Four Givings". These principles guide her daily interactions and work within the BLIA, inspiring her to serve her community with dedication. She aspires for Nan Tien Temple and BLIA to remain pillars of Buddhist practice and cultural exchange in Australia, continuing to bring hope, harmony, and peace to diverse communities.
