His Holiness XIV Dalai Lama

He was born in Takster in northeastern Tibet on July 6, 1935 into a peasant family. At the age of 2, Tenzig Gyatso was recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama. He began his studies at 6 years of age, at 25 he obtained the degree of Geshe Lharampa (Doctor of Buddhist Philosophy). The Dalai Lama is the manifestation of the Buddha of Compassion who chose to be reborn to serve humanity and is currently the spiritual leader of Tibet.

After the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, his Holiness lives in exile in Dharamsala (India) and has defended his country's legitimate right to self-determination with a peaceful message of non-violence. In recognition of his tireless work, in 1989 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

The 14th Dalai Lama, who unlike his predecessors who never made it to the West, travels around the world. He eloquently speaks for ecumenical understanding, kindness, compassion, respect for the environment and above all, world peace.

HH Dalai Lama official website