UNICEF Australia visits Lao Buddhist temple
UNICEF Australia visits Lao Buddhist temple
Recently, UNICEF Australia attended the annual Bodhi Tree Commemoration Ceremony, a significant Buddhist observance honouring the Bodhi tree as a symbol of the Buddha’s enlightenment. Hosted by Wat Phrayortkeo Dhammayanaram (Lao Buddhist Society of NSW), the ceremony brought the community together for reflection, meditation and prayers for peace.
Tony Stuart, CEO of UNICEF Australia, and Zunilka Whitnall, Senior Partnerships Manager, joined the peaceful occasion, which included a procession around the Bodhi tree, Buddhist chanting, and prayers for world peace.
"We were honoured to be welcomed into such a peaceful and joyful ceremony. Moments like this remind us of the power of faith communities in fostering connection, compassion and shared hopes for the most vulnerable, and those are often children."
The visit followed earlier conversations between UNICEF Australia and the Buddhist Council of NSW, where both organisations shared their work and explored opportunities for collaboration. Visiting Wat Phrayortkeo Dhammayanaram provided a meaningful opportunity to deepen understanding of Buddhist traditions and strengthen relationships. UNICEF Australia and the Buddhist Council of NSW are optimistic that this engagement will support a positive and enduring partnership, grounded in shared values of compassion, peace and care for children.
