Jain Center Los Angeles CA 1998 07 10th Anniversary of Jain Bhavan

Author(s): Jain Center So CA Los Angeles
Publisher: USA Jain Center Southern California

Page 103

3rd Biennial YJA Convention - "Back to Basics" by Mona Vadecha, YJA Western Regional Coordinator & Director of Events
The 3rd Biennial Young Jains of America (YJA) convention was held during July 2 to 5, 1998 in Houston, Texas. YJA and the Houston Convention Committee worked together to ensure that the convention is a successful educational and social experience for all the participants. There were 725 youth in attendance from all around North America, approximately 80 of whom were from the Los Angeles area.
The convention was held at the beautiful Del Lago Resort Hotel, where large convention facilities were available. Distinguished dignitaries and professors from around the world were invited to discuss Jainism and related philosophical issues with the youth. Invited speakers included: Benjamin Zephaniah, Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanuji, Sadhvi Shilapiji, Balabhadraji (Bruce Costain), Dr. Cromwell Crawford, and Professor Janice Leoshko. Benjamin Zephaniah, a renowned African poet and professor, was the keynote speaker, and he was able to bring the crowd to its feet with his passionate speech about our need to go back to the "Basic Good" of society.
There were also a great number of youth that participated as presenters or moderators for workshops at the convention. Among them were several youth from the Los Angeles area, specifically--Sarita Vasa, Neil Vadecha, Nimesh Desai, and Niraj Shah. The topics they covered ranged from the application of Aparigraha (limiting the possessions) to our daily lives to the ethical implications of new biotechnological procedures. The information and enthusiasm of the youth moderators were impressive.
In addition to educational seminars and discussions, there were many opportunities for social interaction at the convention. A social activity was planned for each night of the convention. On first night, there were ice-breaker. On the next night, there was a garba/raas, and on the final night, there was a formal dinner and dance. These activities allowed the participants to relax and gave them the opportunity to get to know others. The convention ended on Sunday with a tour of the Jain Society of Houston and some good homemade food (yum yum!!!).
All convention participants went home with something --- be it a new understanding of Jain principles or a new friend with whom they will stay in touch over the years. Hopefully future YJA conventions will be greeted with as much enthusiasm as this convention. It is this strong support, from both the youth and adults in our community, that will ensure the growth of Jainism in the Western world.
Violence is not needed in life.
- Amy Shah (12)
Jain Education Intemational