YJA Convention 2014 07 Washington DC

Author(s): Young Jains of America (YJA)
Publisher: Young Jains of America YJA USA

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SESSIONS AND DESCRIPTIONS
Making Jainism Right for You
Monica Shah
Do you ever question how traditional Jain principles are applicable in today's high paced Western culture? Do you feel like Jainism doesn't make sense anymore in today's times? Are you wondering if Jainism is right for you? Being Jain is not just about what rituals you practice or what "rules" you follow. It's also about how you apply the essence of Jain values. This session will discuss situations in which Jainism feels applicable and others in which it does not. We'll go through examples that you are experiencing today, helping you discover how you can make Jainism work for you.
Meaning In Navkar Mantra
Nirav Shah
COL
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Your first exposure to our faith, even before you can remember, was likely hearing Navkar Mantra, our most fundamental prayer. For many young Jains, this exposure is the seed from which a connection to their personal faith grows. In its phrases is found the path to liberation in Jainism. The title of this session is not an error. Our intention is to understand the mantra, and through that understanding, find a greater meaning and purpose in our lives.
Medicine and Healthcare Panel
Ruchita Parikh, Aakash Shah Sonali Vakharia. Hema Pokharna
COL/JNF
Curious about how the healthcare industry works? Want to learn more about different types of opportunities in medicine? This panel brings together professionals working in different arms of the healthcare industry. Come learn about their jobs and experiences! Participants from all background are welcome.
Misconceptions About Finding the Right One
Monica Shah
Been there, done that....Are you tired of avoiding awkward set-up dates? Are you wondering why the idea of "chemistry" is a foreign concept to your parents when they are constantly pressuring you to settle down? Take a time out from feeling so lost and overwhelmed with the thought of finding the "Right One." Rather, hear from someone who has gone through exactly what you're going through. Hear what she wishes she knew when she was in your shoes. You'll be surprised to hear it's more about looking for the right things, not the right one!
JNF
Modern Jain Values: Social Practices vs. Traditional Rituals
Amam Vasanwala
Praying at the temple, checking the ingredients label at the grocery store, performing daily Samayik, volunteering at the soup kitchen...how do we practice Jainism in today's modern world? This interactive session will allow you to discuss differences between social practices and traditional rituals, while learning how to apply Jainism to modern day life.
YOUNG JAINS: TODAY'S LEARNERS, TOMORROW'S LEADERS
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Modern-Day Slavery & Human Trafficking in the US.
Aashika Damodar
COL/JNF
This session will introduce participants to modern-day forms of slavery and human trafficking in the United States, while they examine the human rights violations associated with these injustices. Participants will learn about transnational and local forms of human trafficking as well as misconceptions concerning trafficking. They will reflect on case studies illustrating instances of slavery and learn what can be done to address this egregious crime and violation of human rights. Please be aware that some of the activities in this session will contain sensitive language and graphic material, which may be difficult and/or traumatic for some to experience.
Tomorrow eade
Negotiating Across Differences Parth Savla
Time to work together! This interactive session explores what it takes to work with and lead a team. While collaborating with your team members on a hands-on building project, you will discover more about cooperation, competition, and communication - and their limits. This session will get you thinking about how to communicate well within a team dynamic and the importance of being aware of anekantavada, the multiplicity of views.
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