SGIA Newsletter

last updated on 13 October 2011

Youth Meeting in Western Australia

Perth - Western Australia held the Youth Friendship Celebration on 24 September with the theme of “Contribute to the joy of my local group : Invite, Attend Study, Share.”. 40 youth members including 13 new friends attended the friendship meet held at the SGIA Western Australia Community Centre. After morning prayers, the meeting kicked off with a presentation on “The importance of the local group”. The presenters shared the significance of support and open hearted discussions, and also inspired all with short personal experiences.

A young man, Anurag, gave his personal experience, where he shared how he had overcome his challenges in his family relationship, study and career through strengthening his faith. He also shared his determination to succeed in his business so that it could show actual proof of victory in order to encourage others.

The attendees then joined 8 small groups to engage in dialogues about the theme. Everyone had the opportunity to meet new friends. Everyone enjoyed sincere dialogues about the importance of the local group meetings, the conviction to have open heart to heart dialogue and how sharing experiences during group meeting creates the courage to carry out our inner transformation so that value can be created from any situation. 

SGI President Daisaku Ikeda believes that each person is an irreplaceable treasure that has the potential to live a creative life full of joy. This friendship meeting was a result of his relentless conviction, and all the attendees left the meeting inspired and joyful.

SGIA Men's Friendship Meeting and Dark to Dawn Exhibition in Perth
Perth - Around 50 SGIA Men’s Division members and friends gathered in the Western Australia Community Centre on 27 August for the Men's friendship and commemorative meeting and the SGIA exhibition “Dark to Dawn: Being Creative about Depression” .The theme of the day, “The Power of Dialogue”,  was expressed through the  personal experiences of two men in relation to their Buddhist practice and their own transformation through dialogue.

One of the men present, Darren, also shared his personal experience of  depression, resulting in his attempt to commit suicide. Darren related how he was saved by his good friend's timely visit at his lowest point and a simple greeting “How are you doing?” has saved him. He encountered Nichiren Buddhism earlier on at his work place but didn’t think he needed it then. Eventually he met another SGIA member who became his wife. She inspired him to practice Buddhism which has brought the sun back to his life. With her support and the support of his fellow SGIA members, he is now very appreciative of his life and has the strength to become happy, for himself and for the sake of others. His courage to share his experience greatly touched everyone’s hearts. 

Comments from Professor Alex Main, Murdoch University, were shared on his view on the exhibition when he helped to launch it in WA a few years ago:

“SGI initiative in dealing with depression (particularly the major themes of Purposeful Struggle, Courageous Reflection, Meaningful and Contributive Life) resonates with his professional career of over 40 years.

Highlighting the central concept of the exhibition, DIALOGUE, as a means for creating value and purpose in life and “Despair at our imperfection is a greater obstacle than the imperfection itself”, according to 17^th century theologian, Francois de Salignac de la Mothe-Fenelon. “  

One of the guests who attended expressed his great joy at having attended this meeting.  He was very impressed by the presentation and the humanism of Nichiren Buddhism. An SGIA member commented that he was very encouraged by the exhibition as he could relate it to his own life.  

New SGIA Community Centre in Victoria Opens!

Melbourne - On 13 August 2011, together with 100 interstate members, the Mayor of Maribyrnong City, Sarah Carter, officially opened the beautiful SGIA Victoria Community Centre thanks to the generous support of SGI President Daisaku Ikeda and the contributions of SGIA members around Australia. In his congratulatory message, SGI President Daisaku Ikeda referred to the new centre as a "Fortress of Peace" and asked that the centre be a "forum for cultural exchange".
A commemorative dinner was held that same night with 415 SGIA members and invited VIP's to celebrate this significant milestone for all SGIA members.

Women's Meeting in New South Wales

Sydney - It was a beautiful and sunny winter's day on Sunday 26 June 2011 where women from all over NSW gathered to celebrate 60 years of Soka women working in solidarity to build a network of peace and happiness in their family and in the community. The hall at the SGIA Culture Centre was packed with women's members and their loved ones that came to support them. With the theme 'Forging Ahead Dynamically', the meeting began with a vigorous gongyo and chanting followed by a welcome from two very energetic and lively MCs Ravisha and Tassy. Michelle then delivered a warm message from SGI President Daisaku Ikeda on the importance of persevering in practice over 10 or 20 years to experience the great benefit of faith. The guest of honour was Mrs Le Lam, Councillor of Auburn Council. She shared with us her experience of working as a community leader and her role as a mother and the importance of being broad-minded. Three experiences were shared by Ayuna Godinez, Seema Nangia and Judith O'Callaghan who inspired us with their lion-hearted courage and their personal transformations. There were some wonderful performances by Gilda Gilmore and by the Blue Sky Choir, with the support given by some of our talented musician. To end the meeting, SGIA Vice General Director Liz Bowen encouraged the women to remember that it is the heart that is important. Beautiful hand-made souvenir bookmarks with President Ikeda's guidance were presented and with warm and happy hearts, everyone adjourned to share dialogue and a wide array of sumptuous food prepared by the women. 

Women's Meeting in Victoria

Melbourne - The SGIA Women’s members in Victoria held their Commemorative Meeting celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Soka Gakkai Women's Division on 19 June 2011.Our theme for the celebration was,” Forging Ahead Dynamically”.
It was attended by 95 women, many of them friends of SGI members and a special guest, Councillor Dina Lynch from the Maribyrnong City Council who welcomed SGIA to the City. This was especially heart warming for us to hear as we will be opening our new SGIA Victoria Centre in Raleigh Rd, Maribyrnong in August.The meeting and study groups were full of vibrancy and friendship. We had an encouraging message from SGI President Daisaku Ikeda and Mrs Ikeda, an inspiring life experience from Judith Penak, wonderful singing and great conversations and introductions to new and familiar faces over tea.Judging by the many beaming faces, it was clear that the day was full of happiness.“The Lotus Sutra teaches of the great hidden treasure of the heart, as vast as the universe itself, which dispels any feelings of powerlessness. It teaches a dynamic way of living in which we breathe the immense life of the universe itself. It teaches the great adventure of self-reformation” - Daisaku Ikeda

Women's Meeting in Queensland

Brisbane - Queensland  held their Women's Division commemorative meeting on Sunday 12 June 2011 at the SGIA Community Centre in Queensland from 2pm. The theme was ‘Living a hope filled life’-faith for health, action for happiness and courage for eternal victory.   The meeting opened with beautiful piano playing by Kate and a poem about women related by Heidi and Paula.   After harmonious chanting lead by Sam, we were fortunate to share an encouraging message from SGI President Daisaku Ikeda and Mrs Ikeda.  Pam introduced the theme, and Sandy shared with us about 2nd President Josei Toda who inaugurated the Women's Division in 1951.   We had a wonderful performance about Josei Toda’s wife, Ikuko, who had supported him all the way with her strength when he was inprisoned during World War Two.  It was a mix of acting, music and singing from Tommi, Heidi, Junko, Kate and Jill. We also had a wonderful performance from the Brisbane and Gold Coast choirs.  Again, it was just beautiful!  We also had a powerful experience by Naomi Morris.  To close the meeting, we were fortunate to have encouragement from SGIA Women's Leader Ana Bran.   When we arrived at the centre, we saw the Soka Group members in the car park helping direct people as they arrived at the meeting.  Our Women's meeting was definitely successful thanks to every single person who was involved in the meeting, especially all the men who supported us.

Interfaith Dialogue - Embracing Difficult Conversations

Sydney - On 9 June the first in a 3 series interfaith conversations titled, "Embracing Difficult Conversations" was held at the SGI Australia Culture Centre with the theme: “Conflict and Religion”. This series is a result of regular meetings of different faiths who share a conviction that religion should be source of hope for all.The meeting was moderated by Rev. Sef Carroll, Convenor Uniting Church National Assembly. The two speakers were Imam Afroz Ali, Director Al Ghazzali Centre and SGIA General Director Greg Johns.The dialogue highlighted that religion can be a source of hope or conflict based on each person's personal choice. Imam Afroz Ali shared an Islamic view of conflict and Islamic response to it while Greg Johns spoke about the Buddhist response to conflict. The meeting was well attended by practioners of both faiths and many guests as well. It was encouraging to see so many youthful curious faces in the audience not afraid to ask questions openly. Questions and compliments from the audience followed after the speakers shared their views. Refreshments followed the dialogue, which became a good opportunity to continue the conversation.
The second dialogue of this series will be held in August 2011.

Women's Meeting in Northern Territory

Darwin - on 12 June, the SGI Australia members in Darwin celebrated the 60th Anniversary of the founding of the Soka Gakkai Womens Division. SGIA General Director Greg Johns joined the members in celebrating this significant event.It was a meaningful day with everyone enjoying heart to heart dialogue during afternoon tea.




Women's Meeting in Western Australia

Perth - It was a sunny winter afternoon in Perth for the gathering of women celebrating the 60^th anniversary of the foundation of the Women’s Division (WD) on 12 June 2011.  

We were privileged to receive heart-warming messages from our beloved SGI President Daisaku Ikeda and SGI Australia Women's leader Ana Bran.  President Ikeda reassured us that through our continuing practice we would definitely achieve victory in our lives without fail.  Ana encouraged everyone to appreciate this amazing opportunity for us to advance on our meaningful journey, with the same spirit as our mentor to share, inspire and bring hope to other women.

Next, Colleen, Shani and Vads treated everyone to a meaningful song “Lean on Me”!  

The theme for this commemorative meeting is “Forging Ahead Dynamically”.  Susie Chan light-heartedly shared and encouraged everyone to advance forward even if it is for just one millimetre and never to allow ourselves to retreat for a single step, based on the “Five Eternal Guidelines for the WD”.  Everyone present at the gathering pledged to advance courageously and not be defeated.

Colleen Williams courageously shared her experiences of how she deepend her practice to achieve major breakthroughs in her life under tremendously trying situations and trials.  She firmly believes that everything happening on our journey of faith has profound meaning.  Through all these challenges and struggles, Colleen realised her mission in life and achieved many victories personally and in her family as well.

To celebrate this significant milestone and fresh departure, we had a special 60^th anniversary cake!  Representing Jitsuko Frandsen who was WA’s first WD leader, Cindy Frandsen, together with another pioneer Women's leader Nellie Lau represented the women in cutting this beautiful and delicious cake. The meeting ended with an encouragement given by Meng Goh.  She encouraged all women to inspire others through our own transformation and great victories. 

Men's Meeting in Western Australia

Perth - On 28 May, 40 men SGIA members and friends gathered in the WA Community Centre for the “Men’s  Friendship Meeting”. The meeting commenced with sonorous chanting followed by gongyo led by Peter Koh. Darren Johnston, the MC of the day, started the gathering with a warm welcome followed by the video Our Shared Humanity: An Introduction to SGI Buddhist Movement. Next was a fabulous presentation by Gabriel Urtubey, Paul Astill and Sean Seet on the theme – “Faith, Practise and Study”. The presentation was relaxed yet informative. The trio was able to relate their life experiences with the theme and inspired members and friends to share openly during the dialogue session thereafter. 

In addition, Peter Koh shared his vision of 2030 as well as his determination to foster and support the Youth as they are the future for humanity.

The meeting ended with a sizzling hot BBQ coordinated by Fabian Perreau. Everybody had a chat while they enjoyed the delicious food. Bonds of friendship were created and the dialogue continued for quite some time.

What a fantastic celebration! Everybody enjoy themselves and is looking forward to the next one. Also, special thanks to the youth and women members who helped to make this gathering a great success!

Report from Tasmania

Hobart  - On 13 March 2011, the March 16 Commemorative Meeting was held, starting at 10am with prayers dedicated to the victims and survivors of the Christchurch earthquake, Queensland floods and the Sendai earthquake and tsunami in Japan. As the morning warmed, the young women then jointly read out SGI President Ikeda's March 16 message. The young men distributed printouts and shared about the history and spirit of March 16. A discussion about the oneness of the mentor and disciple spirit throughout the history of the Soka movement continued before the meeting concluded with some musical activity on a beautiful autumn morning.

Hobart – On 1 May 2011, the May 3 Commemorative Meeting was held at Friends Meeting House, a local community hall. The meeting began at 3pm with vigorous chanting to warm up a chilly afternoon. Those present welcomed visiting Sydney members Lizette and Alessandra as well as new member Minkyoung. They shared about the heartfelt friendships made through the SGIA movement during their migration. SGI President Ikeda's May 3 message was read out , followed by lively dialogue from various study partners around the autumn Indigo study course on Nichiren. The meeting ended with some sing-a-longs and percussion activity.

Women's Friendship meeting in New South Wales

 

On 17 April 2011, at 10.30am the NSW Women's Friendship meeting began with vibrant morning Gongyo and chanting at the Australian Culture Centre (ACC).   NSW Women’s members, family and friends gathered together to celebrate the significance of friendship and leading a victorious life. Everyone came with a brimming smile as beautiful as the sunshine which greeted all with warmth and light.

The meeting started off with Ana Bran's warm message on the significance of women in altering the course of history from an era of violence to one of peace through the transformation of their behaviour and positively influencing others around them.

The theme for the meeting was, “Treasuring the present moment, inspiring hope” and the meeting was packed with moving, personal experiences shared by Samantha David and Bridget Lynch-Blosse as well as inspiring study presentation by Vicky Tait and Reiko Azuma.  With “Treasure of the Heart” as the topic of discussion, we broke up into small groups where women from different backgrounds shared their own struggles, victories and thoughts.

The meeting closed with Liz Bowen’s encouragement, in which she shared, “An organisation like SGI which works to care for every individual's happiness is rare and is to be treasured”. This was followed by members and guests taking a group photo, and continued on with their dialogues while they mingled around with light refreshments served by the youth members.

SGIA donates books to University of New England

SGIA General Director Greg Johns visited the University in March to present the books to Professor Helen Ware (pictured with Greg Johns), and to meet staff members and students of UNE Peace Studies and members of local SGI groups.

The seven books contain dialogues between SGI President Daisaku Ikeda and world thinkers.  

Greg Johns commended Professor Helen Ware and her colleagues in Peace Studies at UNE for “working so hard for peace” - including  their contribution to the 23rd Biennial Conference of the International Peace Research Association at the University of Sydney in July last year.

“The links between SGI and Peace Studies at UNE are just one example of ways in which a common interest in the scientific study of the conditions necessary for building peace can bring together very diverse groups from around the world,” Professor Ware said. “If conditions permit, next year’s world peace research conference will be held in Hiroshima and UNE’s contributions will include our work on peace building in Africa, environmental aspects of peace, and the use of art in community building.”

Diamond Group In Western Australia

Perth - 12 December - The meeting commenced at 11.00am with morning gongyo led by Peter Koh followed by personal experiences from Mary Wong and Virginia Milner who both expressed their gratitude for support by members during difficult family crisis. Both women inspired us with their determination, strong faith and belief that ‘winter always turns into spring’.
The choir performed two songs “I still call Australia home” and ‘I’d like to teach the world to sing” followed.

80th Anniversary Plaque unveiled in New South Wales

Sydney  - On 12 December, Auburn Councilor Le Lam unveils the 80th Anniversary plaque together with SGIA General Director Greg Johns.

80th Anniversary Plaque unveiled in Western Australia

Perth - On 5 December, after the commemorative meeting, all members gathered on the staircase and upper foyer, the Future Group formed up outside the front door and they welcomed our distinguished visitor, the Deputy Mayor of the City of Stirling, Councillor Giovanni Italiano.
Councillor Italiano gave a very touching  and well-informed speech to commemorate the 80^th anniversary of SGI before drawing the curtain and  unveiling our magnificent memorial plaque to the resounding applause of the members.

Depression Exhibition and Forum in Gosford City Council

Erina – On 21 October, SGI Australia, in conjunction with Gosford City Council, hosted the Dark to Dawn: Being Creative About Depression exhibition and forum at Erina Fair Library. Over 70 people attended to hear Deb Howe, Director of Mental Health Services, Central Coast, Reg Davis who is a pyschologist and Greg Johns, SGIA General Director, share their thoughts and experiences on Depression and how dialogue can be used to transform it. Many of the guests shared how wonderful the exhibition and forum was and how great the need for dialogue is in their local area.

General Members Training Course in October

Sydney – On 1-3 October, 67 SGIA members participated in the General Members Training Course at the Australia Culture Centre. Over the 3 days, members participated in study sessions, small group discussions and received encouragement from the nationwide leaders and vice general directors.
Based on President Ikeda’s spirit of dialogue, participants created new friendships and deepened their understanding of the group dialogue movement in Australia.

SGI Leaders Study Conference in USA

Los Angeles - We had the good fortune to be members of the twelve-strong SGI Australia team invited to the SGI Leaders Conference in Santa Monica, California.  This was an amazing opportunity for us all to deepen our faith, strengthen our knowledge and build relationships with other SGI members from the USA, New Zealand, Canada and of course Australia.

The essence of the training was to gain a better understanding of how to advance  kosen-rufu through activating the mentor and disciple relationship.  The conference consisted of a mixture of lectures, Q&A sessions, group discussions and activities.  The lectures were delivered with great eloquence by Mr Masaaki Morinaka, Japan’s Soka Gakkai Study Department Leader.

The first lecture was on “The Three Kinds of Treasure”, with Treasures of the Heart being the most important.  The second lecture covered “The Supremacy of the Law”, emphasising the importance of maintaining firm faith and continuing to move forward, even when facing the most challenging obstacles, thus following the example of our mentor “...everything I am or have achieved today is the good fortune and benefit resulting from having done my utmost to support and protect Mr Toda. Such is the realm of Buddhism.”  The  last lecture on  Nichiren’s “Letter from Sado outlined the importance of walking the great path of mentor and disciple throughout our lives.

The study conference was a memorable event in all our lives and we have built warm friendships that will last a lifetime.

Gold Coast and Brisbane Diamond Group Inaugural Meeting

Brisbane - Gold Coast/Brisbane Diamond Group's first meeting. Sunday 19 September 2010.

Inside, there was great warmth as members excitedly greeted both old and new friends. After Gongyo, members were treated to two experiences, a Headquarters Leaders video from Japan, a short Gosho study and some guidance. During the video, President Ikeda shared Mr Makiguchi's conviction that Nichiren’s Buddhism was such a great philosophy it would undoubtedly spread throughout the world. Despite many frustrations, the pioneer members have been instrumental to this spread in Australia. Hiroki from the Gold Coast said despite not being able to speak English well, she introduced 22 people to this Buddhism. Kimie spoke candidly about the early days of practicing in Brisbane. “Sometimes I enjoyed the meetings, sometimes I did not,” she said. But she always relied on her faith in the Gohonzon, especially when she felt angry. “(When) I chanted to the Gohonzon, I was able to see things in a more favourable light and this helped me continue,” she said. In the video, President Ikeda said life was not just laughing and joking. He said we should also learn from adversity and it would not be wasted on us.   Although the meeting was officially over, everybody stuck around to enjoy the delicious lunch and more joyful dialogue.  A quote from President Ikeda was shared,  “We may all grow physically old, but those who dedicate themselves to world peace have no chance of growing spiritually old. So let us all work and chant together so that we win and win!” Although the meeting was officially over, everybody stuck around to enjoy the delicious lunch and more joyful dialogue.

WA Men's Commemorative Meeting

Perth - On the 22 August 2010, the WA Men’s Commemorative Meeting was held at the WA Centre. The meeting commenced at 2:00pm with a welcome speech followed by an encouragement from President Ikeda read by David Tidman. Shaun spoke of the significance of the celebration of the SGI 80th anniversary during the month of November, reminding the men to share the celebration with friends and family. Joe Lau, a senior pioneer member, acknowledged the late Jimmy Lee’s contribution to SGI. Lawrence Lim read out an article “Life and Death”, which was prepared by Jimmy Lee before he passed away. The theme of discussion for that afternoon was the “Oneness of Mentor & Disciple - A life of No Regret”. It was centred on “The death of Ivan Ilych”, a novel written by Leo Tolstoy and presented by Nigel Askew. Small groups then discussed the book and how it related to their lives. To conclude Peter, Terry and Lawrence summarised all the point of discussion.

Marrckville Council Supports Transforming the Human Spirit Exhibition

Sydney – As part of the Mayors for Peace program, Marrickville Council hosted the SGI Transforming the Human Spirit exhibition from 18 to 22 August at the Petersham Town Hall. Mayor Sam Iskander (pictured with Liz Bowen) kindly opened the exhibition, and Vice General Director Liz Bowen represented SGI Australia. The Mayor, in his praise of the exhibition and the work of SGI, spoke about how important it is to educate future generations so that they can contribute to peace and not repeat the cycle of conflicts and war we currently witness. Liz Bowen quoted from President Ikeda’s 2010 Peace Proposal, including the following passage:

“Surveying the challenges that confront contemporary global society, I am convinced that nothing is more crucial than an essential reorientation of our way of life based on a commitment to the welfare of all of humankind and the entire planet…Rather than stand to one side and ponder how the future might develop, we must focus on what each of us can do at this critical moment, the role each of us can choose to play in changing the direction of history. We must strive to make a proactive, contributive way of life the prevailing spirit of the new era.”

SGI Australia National Planning Committee Meeting

 Sydney – The quarterly SGI Australia conference of nationwide and state leaders, the National Planning Committee (NPC), was joyfully held on the 14 and 15 of August. Opening with an inspiring lecture by SGIA General Director Greg Johns, who encouraged all the leaders deepen their relationship with SGI President Ikeda and to exemplify his guidance in their lives. The conference centrepiece was the feedback on current activities in each state and planning and determinations for next year’s theme and activities. The conference broke in to small groups to discuss various activities, including study, training courses, future group and high school groups and the group movement as a whole. Group discussion was also held about how planning and promotion of the November celebrations are progressing in each state. The focus of the whole conference was on thorough dialogue under the theme of “Protecting the Heritage through our Activities”.

Muslim & SGIA Youth Dialogue

Sydney – On Saturday 17 July, 26 young Muslim leaders from the La Trobe University’s Centre for Dialogue’s Young Muslim Leadership Program joined 28 SGIA Youth Leaders from the newly formed SGIA Peace Culture Education Department (PCE) for a full day event based on the theme, “Celebrating the Dignity of Life”.
After a warm and joyful introduction between all the participants, four young Muslim leaders who were participating in the program from the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, shared their experiences of the Leadership Program and their individual struggles and determinations. Two SGIA youth then gave an introduction of SGI Australia’s activities, in particular, the group discussion meetings and the PCE’s desire to respond to President Ikeda’s annual Peace Proposal’s to the United Nations through engaging with the community to create a culture of Humanism. All participants then viewed the SGIA Depression Exhibition and film ‘Dark to Dawn: Being Creative about Depression’. This was followed by small group discussions on how to respond to youth depression.
A panel discussion then followed, where three Muslim youth and three PCE members shared their own experiences of depression, violence and social pressures and how they challenged to overcome them. It was a very moving expression of courage and determination from all the speakers. One of the senior Muslim youth leaders shared his view that this type of multi-faith exchange was ‘revolutionary’ and was the most valuable out of the many he had been involved with. This is the third such dialogue and was initiated by The Centre for Dialogue’s Young Muslim Leadership Program coordinator Mr Larry Marshall and SGIA General Director Greg Johns.

International Peace Research Conference

Sydney – In total four SGI representatives presented papers at this international conference held at the University of Sydney between the 6-10 of July. The theme of the conference was Communicating Peace and the papers from the SGI representatives were on varied topics related to peace education; peace and tourism; music and human rights; and religion and peace. SGI Australia Vice General Director Liz Bowen, Olivier Urbain, Director of the Toda Institute for Global Peace and Policy and SGI members Associate Professor Hideki Tamai of Soka University and Yoko Urbain also presented papers. Five hundred local and international participants had the opportunity to attend plenary sessions and small group workshops. As part of the conference, SGI Australia sponsored a workshop with internationally renowned peace scholar, Johann Galtung. Participants of the workshop were exposed to the breadth of Galtung’s intellect in peace studies and case studies of his work. He related episodes of visiting conflict regions numerous times to engage the weapon of dialogue and enable participants to create a vision forward, beyond the stalemate of conflict and cycles of violence. The audience of 120 comprised participants from the International Peace Research Associations conference, media, members of the public and SGI Australia youth representatives. Prior to Galtung’s address, Professor Stephen Zunes of the University of San Francisco spoke engagingly about one case study of ongoing conflict and the conflict transformation work being undertaken in the sub-Sahara desert.  In his candid reply to a variety of questions Professor Galtung expressed his belief in the need to manifest creative responses to the recurring issues that inhibit progress towards peace in a range of conflicts around the globe. Galtung spoke with insight, humour and a youthfulness that belied his age of 80.

Youth Celebrations around Australia

Adelaide - A joyous youth meeting was held on 17 July with 18 youth members and friends attending. Heartfelt dialogue, inspired by President Ikeda's guidance, created a warm and inspiring atmosphere where the youth shared their struggles and thoughts. One youth member commented that because of the dialogue, she is courageously challenging herself to look at other's potential, rather than focusing on their behaviour. 

Perth - On this beautiful Sunday morning, a total of 60 friends and SGIA youth members   gathered with high spirits, celebrating the SGI month of Youth. With the theme ‘Courageous Life’, we set off the day by reading the message from SGIA General Director, Greg Johns. The meeting was introduced to share the purpose of living our life with courage.  A young women's member shared her personal appreciation in encountering this Buddhism. We then sung a familiar Michael Jackson song, Man in the Mirror and everyone joined in. The meeting closed with an encouragement from SGIA Vice General Director, Meng Goh to encourage us to begin from today and make a fresh determination in our life. Morning tea provided a great opportunity for everyone to connect and engage in further dialogue.We would like to thank the men's and women's members for their huge support for the event.

Hobart – Youth gathered on July 11 and 17 to commemorate the founding of the youth division in Soka Gakkai.

The gathering starting with morning prayer and then the General Director's encouraging message was read out. We discussed about what it meant to share SGI President Daisaku Ikeda’s conviction. July’s INDIGO feature article informed our discussion into genuine care for others through courageous prayer, sincere friendship and daily redetermination to win. We also discussed about our responsibilities as spiritual successors, and how we could enact our mentor’s spirit at school and work. The meeting concluded on a high note with the viewing of the May 3^rd Headquarters Leaders meeting.

Women's Friendship Meeting in Queensland

Brisbane - On 13 June, SGIA members and friends enjoyed an inspiring and invigorating Women's Friendship meeting at the SGIA Culture centre in Brisbane.

Women's Friendship Meeting in Western Australia

 Perth - On 20 June 2010 the SGIA Women's members from WA celebrated their Friendship Day.  The Theme was  “ Live out your life with courage, breaking through your own limitations”. There were around 130 happy members  and friends at the gathering. The members and friends were then encouraged to chat to each other about “what limitations we would like to breakthrough in our lives’’ . This generated vibrant  dialogue , smiles and laughter in the room.

Diamond Group Meeting in Victoria

Melbourne - Victoria held its first Diamond Group meeting on 22 May 2010 at the Melbourne Centre. It was a beautiful, sunny morning as members arrived for the meeting. We started with a vibrant gongyo led by Harry Nire followed by a message that was read out from Nationwide Diamond Group Coordinator, Kyoko Imaya. Since it was the first meeting Suan Ooi went through the objectives and goals for the Diamond Group.   Eiko Mollison, a Dimaond Group member,  gave an inspiring experience, relating her challenge when she moved down from Brisbane to Traralgon.  It was very encouraging and inspiring to hear that age has no limit to live a creative life. Hiroko Telford gave us encouragement and we finished the meeting with lunch that was prepared by some women members and supported by youth members. The Diamond group members were happy to tuck in to the sumptuous foods.

    The main feedback from the group was that they were proud to have a meeting where they could meet and share experiences. Unanimously they requested to have at least 2 meeting a year if possible. Attending the meeting were 35 Diamond group members and friends.

Women's Friendship Meeting in South Australia

Adelaide - On Saturday 12 June a joyous gathering of women came together in Adelaide to celebrate Women's day in a meeting with the theme 'Support from the Heart'. The atmosphere was warm and friendly and there were smiles and laughter all round. Two of our talented members, Mimma and Megha, had got together to paint a beautiful painting - their artistic interpretation of the theme. This was proudly displayed at the front of the hall. There were two heartfelt personal experiences from Vicki and Neha. Then a sketch showing support between a group of women in a hospital ward. Yoshiko played keyboard to entertain us. Susie spoke about her understanding of Support from the Heart'. At the end, animated conversations took place over tea and biscuits. The meeting was a great success with guests commenting on how much they had enjoyed it.

Transforming the Heart Exhibition in Kiama, NSW

Kiama - The exhibition, which was created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Josei Toda's Anti Nuclear declaration, was held at the Kiama Library from 19-28 May, 2010.