Emma Slade

British Buddhist who became the first Western woman to be fully ordained as a bhikshuni in Bhutan. She founded a charity supporting children with special needs in Bhutan.

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Feb 28, 2025 • 26min

Heart and Soul: Becoming a Buddhist Bhikshuni in Bhutan

Emma Slade, also known as Lopen Ani Pema Deki, is a British Buddhist and the first Western woman fully ordained as a bhikshuni in Bhutan. She shares her incredible journey, detailing her transformation from a life in England to embracing Buddhism in Bhutan after a life-altering trauma. The discussion highlights the historic ordination of 144 women, the emotional resonance of the ceremony, and the empowerment of female monastics through improved living conditions and education. Emma's charity work for children with special needs also sheds light on her mission to support marginalized communities.