I don't guide this program from theory. I guide it from my own experience as a highly successful strategic activist—from the loneliness of being first to act, and the transformation that occurs when you refuse to abandon your center.
Let me tell you about two torches I've carried.
Buddhist Project Sunshine (2017–2018): Breaking Decades of Institutional Silence
In February 2017, I initiated Buddhist Project Sunshine—a year-long investigation into entrenched patterns of sexualized violence within the Shambhala Buddhist community, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist organizations in the West.
I was the first person to create change, and I did it in one year. I designed a five-phase process: creating a safe container for truth-telling, gathering anonymous survivor impact statements, establishing high-calibre integrity for a community in crisis, collaborating with a professional investigator, and publishing the real story grounded in investigative rigor globally through social media and major world media, such as the New York Times and The Guardian.
The institution fought back. In August 2018, I made the decision to publish credible allegations publicly—standing alone against a global organization, devoted members, and threats to my safety, reputation, and spiritual community.
Buddhist Project Sunshine catalyzed international investigations, major media coverage, and ultimately led to the leader's resignation and institutional reforms. I learned this: accountability and healing are not opposing forces—they are complementary aspects of genuine transformation.
CAPREIT Landlord Accountability (2025–Present): Taking on a $14.5 Billion Corporation
In April 2025, I moved into a Halifax apartment marketed as non-smoking. Within weeks, smoke was pouring into my home. I documented 128 smoke incidents and contacted CAPREIT 28 times—with medical documentation from three physician visits.
Their response? Meetings cancelled. Emails ignored. With no legal training, I represented myself against CAPREIT's legal team through multiple hearings. I cross-examined witnesses, presented evidence from three independent sources, and delivered closing arguments citing Supreme Court of Canada precedents.
The result: building-wide smoking prohibitions installed. Four-month notices served to smoking tenants. Complex-wide policy communication about transitioning to smoke-free buildings. I learned this: one person with clarity, documentation, and a high level of chutzpah can change a billion-dollar corporation's behavior.
The Diamond Heart Thread
These two experiences—one spiritual, one material—taught me the same essential truth: when institutions fail to uphold their stated values, individuals with clarity, courage, and compassionate power can catalyze systemic change—even when facing overwhelming odds.
💎 Clarity
The diamond/vajra that cuts through institutional gaslighting
⚔️ Courage
Warrior spirit that stands alone when necessary
❤️ Compassionate Power
Sacred heart that holds accountability AND healing
I've been a Buddhist practitioner for over 50 years. My refuge name is Prajna Torch—which means "torch of seeing things as they are." My role has always been about lighting other people's torches.
I've carried my torches. Now I help others pick up theirs.
You're in the right place.
A 6-Week Diamond Heart Leadership Circle · May 2026
