2025-04-13 Inheritance and Growth Advancing Together: Miami BLIA YAD Attracts New Forces

To promote fellowship among members and to engage more youth, the BLIA (Buddha's Light International Association) Miami Young Adult Division held an Open House event on the afternoon of April 13 at Fo Guang Shan Miami Temple. The event was organized by YAD leaders Harrison Chan, Mayleen Wu, Emily, and others, and attracted 18 enthusiastic young participants.

The event began with Harrison, the YAD President, and Mayleen, the Vice President, guiding everyone into the Main Shrine Hall to be seated. They led the chanting of the English version of the “Taking Refuge in the Triple Gem” and introduced the YAD leadership team, organizational structure, community service initiatives, and youth group activities. This was followed by a tour of the temple facilities, including the shrine hall, dining hall, library, BLIA Miami office, and interactive icebreaker games.

BLIA Miami advisors Mr. Guanglong Zhao and Mr. Hanzheng Mei, Chapter President Ms. Yan Hua Deng, and YAD mentor Ms. Sophie SunAnderson were also present to offer encouragement and support. Sophie shared that since many current YAD leaders will soon be graduating and moving away for college, there had been concerns about passing on leadership responsibilities. As a result, the team proactively planned activities and expanded their social media outreach to increase the visibility of the YAD, helping more youth learn about and engage with the group.

Among the first-time attendees were Lucas and his younger sister, who immediately signed up to join the YAD after the event. Lucas shared that the youth group’s activities seemed very engaging, and the members were friendly and welcoming. He felt there was no sense of distance or hierarchy, which motivated him to join. He also expressed his hope to one day help organize events just like the current leaders.

Venerable Miao Kang, the YAD’s monastic advisor, praised the youth for dedicating time to organize the event despite their busy academic schedules. She commended their initiative, unity, and sense of responsibility. The energetic and joyful atmosphere of this Open House injected new vitality into the Miami YAD.