Dalai Lama (14th)

The 14th Dalai Lama is one of the most influential spiritual leaders of the 20th century. He was born in the small village of Taktser in northeastern Tibet, during a time of great political turmoil in the region. At the age of two, he was identified as the reincarnation of the previous Dalai Lama and given the name Tenzin Gyatso. In 1950, at the age of fifteen, he was officially enthroned as the spiritual leader of Tibet and assumed political power a few years later.

Throughout his tenure as leader, the Dalai Lama has remained an outspoken pacifist and proponent of global interdependence. He has been a tireless champion of democracy, human rights, global peace, and religious tolerance, inspiring millions around the world.

The Dalai Lama’s advocacy of dialogue and compromise has earned him the Nobel Peace Prize, in 1989, and he is the first Nobel Laureate to have held the title of Dalai Lama.

He is also an accomplished author and speaker, disseminating his messages about compassion, Buddhist wisdom, and lasting peace through personal appearances and his numerous books. His books range from autobiographical works, such as ‘My Land and My People’, to philosophical texts, such as ‘The Universe in a Single Atom’.

Widely influential, the 14th Dalai Lama's messages of peace and compassion have resonated with millions around the globe. He has personally met with numerous world leaders, including U.S. Presidents Gerald Ford and Barack Obama. His messages of peace and understanding have inspired protests and demonstrations around the world, as well as acts of non-violent resistance in Tibet.

The Dalai Lama continues to spread his message of peace and compassion, while remaining a political force in global affairs. In 2011, the Dalai Lama announced his retirement from politics, transferring political power to a democratically elected body, but he remains active in the international community. He continues to promote his core message of education, religious tolerance, non-violence, and interdependence, as well as the rights of the Tibetan people.

Throughout his life, the Dalai Lama has remained a constant force for peace, compassion, and understanding. His message has resonated with millions around the world and continues to inspire hope and positive change in the global community.