Youth from across SoCal Mojave Zone gathered on March 7 in Riverside, California, for a youth summit, themed “One,” a daylong gathering focused on dialogue, friendship and exploring the deeper purpose of one’s life in commemoration of March 16, Kosen-rufu Day.
Embraced by clear blue skies and the warm Southern California sunshine, youth from throughout SoCal Mojave Zone gathered on March 7 at the Riverside Buddhist Center for a youth summit, themed “One.” The day was dedicated to fostering connection, exploring how Buddhist practice empowers each person to transform their challenges and become a source of hope for others.
The event drew 125 youth, including 28 guests, from throughout the zone’s wide geographic region—from East Los Angeles, the San Gabriel Valley and Inland Empire to Palm Springs, Las Vegas and Saint George, Utah. One guest drove three hours by herself to attend. An exhibit in the lobby welcomed participants and highlighted the vibrant spirit and history of student division members.
Zone youth leaders Chris Yu and Jade Chen, who served as emcees, encouraged everyone to take advantage of the rare opportunity to meet fellow youth from across the zone and build new friendships.
Just as global summits bring together leaders to address important issues, they explained that this gathering recognized youth themselves as leaders capable of shaping the future of their communities and society.
Throughout the day, the theme “One” encouraged participants to reflect on the power of a single individual’s determination. Rooted in the SGI spirit of “One Youth. Infinite Hope.,” the theme emphasized that even one person who awakens to their mission can spark positive change in the world.
The program opened with activities designed to build connection and dialogue. A lively friendship bingo activity encouraged youth to meet someone new and share their experiences. Participants also contributed to an interactive “Why” board, reflecting on the motivations guiding their lives and Buddhist practice.
A highlight of the summit was a youth panel featuring young women from each of the four regions. The panelists spoke candidly about their struggles and how Buddhist practice helped them transform them. Their experiences ranged from overcoming difficult family relationships and addiction to challenging their own negativity. Two of the four speakers were new members, sharing how chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and encouragement from fellow members helped them begin transforming their lives.
In a podcast-style interview with SGI-USA General Director Adin Strauss, followed by a Q&A with youth, he shared the Buddhist perspective on the eternity of life and the interconnectedness of all beings. He also addressed a participant’s concern about the state of the world, emphasizing our purpose to eliminate war by addressing its root cause.
Responding to a question about how to chant for the happiness of someone who has taken their own life, he emphasized that the most important point is one’s vow. A vow for kosen-rufu, he explained, is not an abstract vision of world peace but a determination to establish unstoppable personal happiness that enables us to support others—including even those who have passed on—while courageously responding to the conflicts we see around the world.
The summit left a strong impression on many participants. One young woman in high school said that she had often felt people treated her as if she were too young to change her circumstances, but the summit helped her realize she has the power to transform her life. A young man said the gathering inspired him to apply to Soka University of America and how hearing other youth utilize this Buddhist practice amid challenges helped him realize he can do the same. Another student said that she usually feels nervous speaking with people she doesn’t know, but being surrounded by supportive peers gave her the courage to start conversations and even challenge herself to share Buddhism with others.
Behind the scenes, Many Treasures Group members chanted daimoku for the summit’s success, men’s and women’s division provided rides, while youth leaders and a dedicated planning committee created a welcoming environment where participants could openly share their experiences and aspirations.
The gathering concluded with renewed determination to bring the spirit of the summit back to their local districts—deepening friendships, supporting one another and believing in their own ability to advance the movement for peace and happiness in their communities.
—Prepared by the World Tribune staff
March 20, 2026 World Tribune, p. 10
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