Dr. Bhante Saranapala, author of "Are You Kindful?"

– Recipient of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms from the Government of Canada
– Recipient of the “Canada 150 Medal and Sesquicentennial Community Award” from the Government of Canada
– Recipient of Spirit Award from the Government of Ontario
- Recipient of 2024 Dr. Ambedkar Peace Award

Known as the “Urban Buddhist Monk”, an appropriate nomenclature for a Buddhist Monk for modern times, Reverend Dr. Bhante Saranapala has been acclaimed as a consummate teacher of meditation by a growing number of seekers of spiritual and healthy life and peace of mind in North America and Europe who admire his simple and all-embracing approach in transmitting the universal message of love, kindness, compassion, understanding and wisdom. He has earned an enviable reputation as a global public speaker and a meditation master par excellence. Born in Chittagong, Bangladesh, Dr. Bhante Saranapala, after receiving both his monastic and secular education in Sri Lanka, made his way to Canada to further his studies (Masters and Doctoral studies at the University of Toronto and McMaster University) and soon addressed his mind to the noble task of spreading in the West his own tested approach to Mindfulness and Insight Meditation. Settling down in the City of Mississauga-Toronto West, he has been a monk in residence at the monastic fraternity of the West End Buddhist Temple and Meditation Centre for the past 30 years. In September 2019, Venerable Dr. Bhante Saranapala was appointed as the World Civility Ambassador by the iChange Nations for his extraordinary kindfulness works around the world. Currently, Dr. Bhante serves Toronto Police Service as a Chaplain.

"Kindness is fundamental to human survival. Our ability to share, assist, and show compassion has arguably been more vital to the survival of humankind throughout history than sheer physical strength.

The impact of kindness is not just symbolic; it is deeply rooted in the way our brains are wired. Have you ever experienced that warm sense of fulfillment after committing an act of kindness—whether it’s helping someone with their groceries, offering a compliment, or simply smiling at a stranger? This sensation is more than just a feeling; acts of kindness trigger biochemical reactions in the brain. Kindness therapy, which integrates mindfulness meditation with regular acts of kindness, has been shown to effectively address a range of physical and emotional challenges.

In this session, we will delve into how kindness influences both body and mind and explore how it can foster a network of supportive individuals and communities, ultimately paving the way for a brighter future."

This presentation explores the power of kindfulness as a means to cultivate resilience and inner peace during life’s most challenging times. Drawing from my personal journey through my father’s battle with cancer and dementia, I will demonstrate how mindfulness and emotional intelligence can be instrumental in managing the intense emotions, stress, and uncertainty that accompany caregiving and significant life changes. Participants will learn practical strategies to maintain their well-being and inner tranquility in the midst of chaos, nurturing a sense of peace and strength that not only supports personal growth but also contributes to a more

What is Qigong? It’s a mindfulness-in-motion practice that channels the flow of energy (chi) to enhance overall wellness for the body, mind, and spirit. In the first part of this session, Jacqueline Chan will explore how integrating kindfulness with energy practices can rejuvenate our well-being and nurture personal growth. In the second half, her mother, Master Teresa, will join to share her insights on Eye Qigong and its benefits. Join us to discover how embracing a loving perspective on life and integrative energy practices can reveal beauty and support restorative healing.

As we walk the Medicine Wheel of Life we must walk the four Quadrants: the physical/Spiritual/Mental/Emotional. All are equal to each other. One of our challenges in walking the sacred hoop is learning the Pathway to surrender. Letting go in order to know balance in our lives come with me & we will walk
the Sacred medicine Wheel together. See you there!

miigwetch
White Eagle

Doug / White Eagle is a Spiritual Councilor, dowser, speaker and storyteller. An ordained, non-denominational minister, he focuses on
Native Spiritualism and Sacred Medicine.

He facilitates: 

• Baptisms
• Weddings and holy unions
• Funerals
• Spiritual and feathered ceremonies
• healing ceremonies to bring balance to the Earth

White Eagle has dropped the Sacred Tobacco in many places: from the Killing Fields of Siagon Malayasia, to Teanamin Square in Beijing, and in the Forbidden City and on the Great Wall of China.

He has done a blessing ceremony at Our Lady Well, and the Initiation of the Raven Clan at the Temple of the Moon in Glasgow, Scotland.He has done ceremony of the 80th anniversary
of the British Society of Dowsers in Cirencester, England.

White Eagle has done ceremony at the Taj Mahal in India to honour the Freedom Fighters of the world including Ghandi, Mandela and Mother Teresa and at Ghandi's final resting place in New Delhi, India.

I will be discussing the Toronto Police Service’s initiative, the Chief’s Wellbeing Program. This program offers training called "Before Operational Stress," provided by Wounded Warriors, to all new recruits. The training is conducted in person by a mental health professional at the Toronto Police College. Afterward, recruits meet with Chief Demkiw to discuss the significance of self-care and take a pledge to prioritize their mental and physical health.
One year later, the recruits receive a video message from the Chief, reinforcing the importance of maintaining their wellbeing. During their second year of service, each officer meets with a Wellbeing Coordinator from the Wellness Unit for additional support and follow-up.

Inspector Benoit has been with The Toronto Police Service for 38 years. She has worked in many frontline and investigative units during this time. She currently works in the Wellness Unit of the Toronto Police Service. Inspector Benoit obtained her certificate in Criminology at the University of Toronto and completed the Executive Police Leadership Program at Rotman School of Management. Inspector Benoit has been a member of the Peer Support Team for 15 years and in her role at Wellness manages the The Chief’s Wellness Program. Liz is a longtime resident of Oakville where she raised her three children. Hot yoga and mindfulness is a critical component of her self care.

This presentation will explore the psychology of kindfulness and its impact on mental and physical well-being. Additionally, I will provide a concise overview of the concept's history, its theological foundations, and its interpretations across various religious and theosophical traditions.

Marta Pawlowski, the visionary behind Lead with L♡ve, has orchestrated numerous holistic events. An educator by profession and a wellness enthusiast at heart, Marta is dedicated to spreading love and positivity.

With extensive experience in the fitness industry and the creation of holistic wellness events, Marta has had the privilege of collaborating with renowned speakers, healers, and artisans. Her partnerships with organizations such as Pathstone Mental Health have helped raise awareness for important causes.

Marta’s personal healing journey has guided her to her true calling—Leading with Love in service to others. Her mantra, "Heal thyself + All things are made POSSIBLE," reflects her belief in the power of love and self-healing.
Lead with L♡ve is a heart-centered movement that is rooted in community. Marta's vision is to inspire others to open their hearts, walk their true paths, and make a meaningful impact on humanity as leaders of love.

Dr. Cuong Tran is a full-time radiologist at Trillium Health Partners, specializing in diagnostic imaging. With a background in traditional Chinese exercise, Dr. Tran integrates both modern medicine and ancient practices in his approach to health.

In his work, Dr. Tran plays a crucial role in helping doctors detect, diagnose, and treat various diseases. He is also a strong advocate for preventive medicine, promoting the philosophy of a healthy mind in a healthy body.

As the principal instructor for the Vietnamese Mississauga Integral Tai Chi Club, Dr. Tran teaches regular Tai Chi Qigong classes, including sessions for the Golden Age Vietnamese Seniors and the Happy Senior Club at the Active Adult Mississauga Center.

In his presentation, Dr. Tran will discuss the benefits of Tai Chi on memory and lead a brief exercise session.

This presentation will inspire attendees to believe that it’s possible to truly love what we do. Through motivational stories and a practical process, it will show us how to embrace not only Mondays but every day with renewed passion. This approach will enhance our fulfillment, increase happiness, and contribute to a kinder, more mindful world.

Dynamic Balance, where ancient wisdom meets modern science to guide you into the
realms of mindfulness, neuroplasticity, transformative learning and A Call To Kindness.
“Why must anyone seek for new ways of acting? The answer is that in the long run the
continuity of life itself depends on the making of new (paradigms)…The continuous
invention new ways of seeing (and being) is our special secret of living.” (J.Z. Young,
Biologist)

This session will engage the participants in a highly interactive process that has been
the mainstay of the award winning, international recognized work, of The Gatehouse
(www.thegatehouse.org) for the past 27 years, as well as the combined 77 years of
Arthur and Brad’s work in the field of mindfulness, community justice, transformative
education and transformative social justice.

The predominant themes that are specifically referenced in this session are:
Mindfulness, Neuroplasticity, Psychosynthesis, Indigenous Teachings, Buddhism,
Taoism and Transformative Learning and Transformative Social Justice. With mindfulness as our anchor, we cultivate presence and awareness, allowing you to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and resilience. Dynamic Balance extends beyond individual transformation—it's also about creating more synergistic relationships. By integrating transformative processes, we envision a culture where healing and restoration are prioritized, where conflicts are resolved withempathy, kindness and understanding.

At the heart of our approach lies the concept of balance—a dynamic equilibrium that
harmonizes mind, body, and spirit. Drawing from the wisdom of Arthur and Brad’s book
“Dynamic Balance”, this session offers practical tools and techniques to help you find
your center amidst life's chaos.

Arthur Lockhart, Order of Ontario
Arthur has held the positions of Chair of The School of Social and Community Services,
Professor of Social and Community Services. Senior Development Manager, Ministry of
Correctional Services.
Arthur is the Founder Emeritus, of The Gatehouse (www.thegatehouse.org),
Founder of the Global Poetry Movement (https://globalpoetrymovement.com),
Co-Founder Survivors Council Canada (https://survivorscouncil.ca),
Arthur founded the Annual International Transforming Trauma Into Triumph Conference.
Arthur is the co-author of the books: Community Lost and Found-A conversation between two
Dreamers; Restorative Justice Transforming Society; The Heartbeat of Extraordinary Education;
Dynamic Balance-The Tao of Forging Individual and Social Transformation.
Arthur Co-created the documentary films addressing Childhood Sexual Abuse: Five Steps-The
Gatehouse; Into the Light, and Illuminating Silence
Arthur has received a number of recognitions for his work including Order of Ontario;
Canada’s Top 50 Champions of Change; Paul Harris Fellow; Innovator of The Year, Inaugural
Distinguished Community Service Award; Toronto Mayor’s Community Safety Nominee; Purple
Door Award; Youth Impact Award and multiple student-teacher awards.
Arthur presents workshops on the local, national, and international levels within the field of
transforming trauma, transformative justice and the power of mindfulness.

Brad Hutchinson’s journey is a powerful story of resilience, leadership, and commitment to community well-being. An award- winning community leader, author, and international speaker, Brad is passionate about personal and social transformation, always bringing lighthearted humour to his presentations, even when tackling stigmatized areas of our culture. As a Black Sash teacher of Shaolin Kung Fu, he blends Eastern insights with Western practicality, reflecting his dedication to empowering others. Beyond martial arts, he has led as Executive
Director of The Gatehouse, working in areas often shrouded in stigma, and is a LivingWorks Master Trainer of ASIST, sharing life-saving skills with compassion. Brad’s life is a testament to