January 26 is Australia Day, and on this day every year, significant awards are given to people who have contributed to the society and their communities across the country. This year, one of our preceptors, brother Vipul Jajal, was awarded the Outstanding Community Services Award in the Northern Beaches district of Sydney "for offering free volunteer-led meditation sessions and full-day events... fostering a growing inclusive community focused on mental health, stress reduction and holistic wellness. Participants believe these sessions have improved their quality of life, benefited their mental health, reduced stress and given them the tools to manage their mental health and well-being on a day-to-day basis. These sessions have led to a community of people throughout the beaches who not only practise meditation but also enjoy friendships and social activities."
We congratulate Vipul and his wife Reena for this well-deserved award. Like thousands of Heartfulness volunteers around the world, they work quietly and consistently in their local community, supporting newcomers and long-time abhyasis alike, and always going the extra mile to welcome everyone with a smile.
