Serene
4 Mar 2026
enduring partnership
Over 15+ years, Firefly Mission (FFM) and the Bhutan Nuns Foundation (BNF) have partnered to empower Buddhist nuns, shifting focus from basic infrastructure (water, toilets) to education, health, and leadership. Key achievements include building the Training & Resource Center in Thimphu and sponsoring the historic 2022/2025 Bhikshuni ordinations.
Key Aspects of the 15-Year Partnership (2011–2025):
Capacity Building & Infrastructure: FFM supported BNF in building the Training & Resource Center near Thimphu, providing a hub for education, health training, and workshops for nuns from across Bhutan.
Empowerment through Education: The partnership focuses on improving the lives of grassroots nuns, providing skills training, and supporting the Nuns Sponsorship Program to foster self-reliance.
Historic Ordinations: FFM was a key sponsor and witness to the historic 2022 and 2025 Bhikshuni ordinations, enabling nuns to take full vows for the first time in Bhutan's history.
Sustainable Support: Initiated in 2011 by Dr. Tashi Zangmo, the partnership has evolved from improving, often, dire living conditions to providing comprehensive, long-term educational and spiritual support.
Visionary Alignment: Both organizations share the goal of integrating nuns into the socio-economic development of Bhutan, ensuring they are active participants in preserving the country's spiritual heritage.
This enduring partnership has significantly changed the landscape for female monastics in Bhutan, allowing them to gain recognition, education, and improved living conditions.
Sadhu! Sadhu! Sadhu!
Lekso! Lekso! Lekso!