Jain Spirit 2004 10 No 20

Author(s): Jain Spirit UK
Publisher: UK Young Jains

Page 20

18 GLOBAL NEWS
Young Jains New Oxford Branch Formed
Young Jain Students Oxford, established in December 2003, has already done much to put Jainism on the social and spiritual map of Oxford University. It is the first organised Jain presence on the campus of one of Britain's most prestigious and ancient university. The Jain principles of ecological concern and abstention from violence are of interest to many students, and the Oxford YJs have also proved that Jains
are sociable and can combine strong ethical principles with the ability to have fun! Jain Spirit has played a pivotal role in the setting up of this organisation. Since the group was formed, it has launched itself into student life with gusto, organising dinners and talks to introduce the Jain
tradition to Oxford students form all backgrounds. For as the Young Jain Students Oxford's highly professional website says, the aim of the group is to welcome people "whether Jain by religion, community or simply having an interest."
Recent events have included a visit by the Samanijis (nuns) from the Jain | Vishva Bharati in London - resulting
in an interview featured on BBC Religion and Ethics - and a talk on business ethics by Dr. Atul Shah, Executive Editor of Jain Spirit and a founder of Young Jains. Dr. Shah's talk was entitled 'Who Cares?' and focused on business ethics. He argued that success in business need not involve greed or callousness, but that achievement would win more respect if balanced by social responsibility, along with concern for family and community. Dr. Shah cited the case of businessman Raoul Shah, who has established the successful advertising and marketing firm, Exposure Ltd. in London and gives a quarter of the profits to his staff annually.
Young Jain Students Oxford was co-founded by Palvi Shah, a Maths student at Worcester College, who is now President, and Anjool Malde, a Geography student at St. Peter's College and BBC music journalist. Anjool is the Vice President, Nicky Shah is the Secretary and Namita Kothari is Treasurer. The Senior Member is Dr. Josephine Reynell from Lady Margaret Hall. Dr. Reynell is a Researcher in Human Development and Gender, specialising in Jain communities and North Indian anthropology For more information about Young Jain Students Oxford, visit: http://users.ox.ac.uk/mspet 1487/jainsoc/