Thich Nhat Hanh, born in 1926 in central Vietnam, is a globally revered spiritual leader, peace activist, and prolific author known for his teachings on mindfulness, meditation, and engaged Buddhism. His life's work has profoundly impacted countless individuals, inspiring them to cultivate inner peace and compassion while actively promoting peace and social justice in the world.

As a young monk, Thich Nhat Hanh became deeply involved in the Vietnamese struggle for independence and later peace during the Vietnam War. His commitment to nonviolence and reconciliation led him to found the School of Youth for Social Service, providing humanitarian aid and social services to war-torn communities.

Thich Nhat Hanh's journey took him beyond Vietnam as he traveled to the United States and Europe, where he shared his message of peace and mindfulness. His encounters with figures like Martin Luther King Jr. reinforced his dedication to nonviolent activism and interfaith dialogue.

At the heart of Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings is the practice of mindfulness—being fully present in the moment with awareness and compassion. Through simple yet profound practices, such as mindful breathing and walking meditation, he offers practical tools for individuals to cultivate peace and happiness in their lives.

Plum Village, the meditation center he established in France, serves as a spiritual sanctuary and global hub for mindfulness practice. From there, he continues to lead retreats and share his teachings, which have been distilled into numerous bestselling books translated into dozens of languages.

Thich Nhat Hanh's impact extends far beyond the boundaries of Buddhism, influencing people from all walks of life, including educators, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. His teachings offer a path to inner transformation and collective healing, reminding us that peace begins with each mindful step and breath we take.