To enhance the comprehensive quality of its leadership team and deepen its sense of mission and vision for future development, the Frankfurt Chapter of the Buddha’s Light International Association held a grand cadre training conference on April 27th at the Grand Hall of Fo Guang Shan in Frankfurt. This training session, comprised of three key thematic courses, offered solid and insightful content, injecting new vitality into the future of the Buddha’s Light International Association’s Dharma propagation. Presided over by Venerable Master Jue Yan, the coordinating venerable, 50 branch directors and leadership members participated, engaging in collaborative learning and growth through practice.
The first course, “How to Communicate Effectively,” was presented by guest speaker Zhou Lingxiao, President of the Lisbon Fo Guang Association in Portugal. Drawing on his extensive experience in corporate management and serving the Buddha’s Light International Association, Zhou emphasized that while businesses prioritize efficiency and accountability, the Buddha’s Light International Association is guided by the principles of “collective creation and shared coexistence.” She emphasized that the core of communication lies in “humility, listening, and empathy.” She cited the “Old Two Philosophy” advocated by Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan, as a guide, encouraging leaders to let go of egos, build team spirit, and cultivate wisdom and compassion through service. She reminded everyone to embrace the spirit of “learning by doing, awakening through learning, and acting through awakening,” to understand the Dharma in their daily lives, grow through practice, build good relationships, and increase wisdom.
The second session, “Fo Guang Shan’s Operations and the Mission of Leaders,” was presented by Supervisor Gao Qinghong, and lecturers Liu Bo and Zhou Lingxiao. The three panelists shared their personal experiences on the importance of planning, executing, and reviewing activities, emphasizing the need for contingency strategies like “having a Plan B” and the altruistic approach to planning and a sense of mission. They emphasized that leaders are not only drivers of activities but also practitioners. Through continuous review and improvement, they cultivate their xinxing and achieve self-fulfillment and fulfillment in every collaboration.
The finale, “Modern Technology and the Future Development of Buddhism,” presented by Director Wei Jiayun, injected innovation and vitality into the conference. Director Wei provided an accessible introduction to the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in Buddhist propagation. She also led participants in a hands-on demonstration of ChatGPT, allowing them to experience how technology can assist with promotional material writing, event planning, and creative thought. She emphasized that future Dharma propagation must leverage contemporary tools, integrating Buddhist wisdom into daily life and the dynamics of the times, truly realizing the ideal of “transforming the world with the Dharma and benefiting all with compassion.” She encouraged the leaders to embrace the new era with an open mind and proactive action, allowing Humanistic Buddhism to shine even more profoundly around the world.
After the class, Branch 2 Secretary Yang Jiayan shared that his greatest surprise was learning how to apply AI tools. He said, “We simply input our ideas, and AI can provide planning solutions, drafting, visual design, and even become a spiritual companion. In the future, our work will be even more efficient. Perhaps the key will not be manual work, but how to intelligently guide AI to aid in Dharma propagation.”
This cadre training benefited participants greatly in communication skills, organizational planning, and the application of technology. In the future, the Frankfurt Buddhist Association will continue to promote cadre development programs, striving to cultivate more talents with compassion, wisdom and innovative spirit, and work together to create a glorious new era of Humanistic Buddhism.
