It’s been over a decade since Karen Leu found herself moving from Negeri Sembilan to the Klang Valley to study. She knew that when she was done, she would probably stay in Kuala Lumpur to work. What she did not know was that Dharma would also become one of the main reasons she would stay. Describing herself as a simple person who wonders a lot about life, Karen is the Secretary for both Kechara Soup Kitchen and the Kechara House Management Committee 2008-2010.

What was life like before you came to Kechara?

It was very relaxed – after work and on weekends, I would hang out with my friends. We’d do anything from exercising to shopping to travelling. I was also a hospice volunteer with Kasih Hospice before I joined Kechara.

How were you introduced to Kechara? Did you have any spiritual inclination or experience in Buddhism before you started at Kechara?

I was introduced to Kechara through friends, and I found the modern, lively approach of teaching to be really appealing. I have actually had experience in Buddhism – when I first moved to Klang in 1998 to study, I became involved with the True Buddhist School because I wanted to learn to be a better person, to have more self-awareness and to care more about the people around me.

Having joined Kechara and received teachings from H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche, what is the most inspiring thing about Rinpoche that you have seen?

Rinpoche is amazing because he makes Dharma so easy for us to absorb. His sincerity and warmth are indescribable. I was very inspired during our Nepal pilgrimage – he gave every one of us some wise words and sincere hugs, and tirelessly explained the importance of Dharma. He told us to stop blaming others and to look inwards when things don’t go the way we want.

Where do you see the future of Kechara? What role do you see yourself playing in the manifestation of Kechara World Peace Centre (KWPC)?

I see Kechara growing in members and in size, and becoming very famous for its Dharmic prowess. During the Nepal pilgrimage, Rinpoche told me to help build KWPC, and I intend to go all the way with his advice. I will do my part as a volunteer and contribute 100% to the departments I’m involved with. I will help Kechara to grow by letting more people know the purpose of KWPC.

So are you happy to be involved in the KWPC project?

Of course I’m happy! I never thought that I would have the chance to contribute to KWPC’s development, and now I can. KWPC will be something different, unique and meaningful to achieve, and not just for our own benefit. Although I’m not a very Dharmic person, I know KWPC will be a channel for people to have the chance to learn and practise Dharma in this new era.