ABO & Bhutan Dharma Centre Pray for Nepal Flood Relief

In solidarity with communities affected by severe flooding in Nepal, the Association of Bhutanese in Ontario (ABO) and the Bhutan Dharma Centre in Toronto jointly organized a special four-hour prayer ceremony on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The ceremony was chaired by the BDC lama Khenpo Tashi Tenzin. Members of the community gathered at the Bhutan Dharma Centre on Bloor Street West to offer heartfelt prayers for the safety, wellbeing, and swift recovery of all individuals and families impacted by the disaster. During the session, 108 butter lamps were lit to dedicate merit, offer light during hardship, and extend collective compassion to everyone facing loss and disruption across the region. The ABO and the Bhutan Dharma Centre extend their deepest sympathies to all those affected by the floods and remain united in prayer for peace, protection, and speedy restoration.

Bhutanese in Canada Raise Over $52K for GMC 108 Stupa Project

In a historic demonstration of unity and devotion, the Bhutanese diaspora across Canada has successfully raised CAD $52,966.00 to support the construction of the 108 Jangchub Chortens (Stupas) at Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). The joint initiative, spearheaded by the Association of Bhutanese in Ontario (ABO) and the Bhutanese Association of British Columbia (BABC), brought together nearly 400 families, individuals, and well-wishers over a three-month nationwide donation drive. A Shared National Aspiration The 108 Jangchub Chortens—each standing 15 meters tall—are designed to serve as the spiritual heart of His Majesty’s vision for Gelephu Mindfulness City. Upon learning of the landmark project, community members in Canada moved quickly to organize a coordinated response, obtaining formal approval from GMC authorities to launch the donation drive. To lead and oversee the initiative, a joint 10-member Special Steering Committee was established with equal representation from both Ontario and British Columbia: The committee formally engaged with the Royal Bhutanese Embassy to Canada (Permanent Mission of Bhutan to the UN in New York). His Excellency Ambassador Tenzin Rondel Wangchuk chaired a meeting with committee representatives, formally extending the Embassy’s encouragement and full support. Ambassador’s Message of Gratitude In an official letter addressed to the Bhutanese community in Canada dated August 25, 2026, Ambassador Tenzin Rondel Wangchuk expressed deep appreciation for the community’s overwhelming participation: “Living so far from home… distance does not weaken devotion, it deepens it. Every contribution, whatever its size, carried the same sincerity… This is not just generosity. It is identity.” “His Majesty has often reminded us that Bhutan’s greatest strength is the unity of its people. What you have shown in Canada is living proof that being Bhutanese was never about geography. It is about carrying your King, your country, and your heritage within you, wherever you stand.” Fundraising Summary & Coupon System Across Canada, the campaign garnered contributions from 381 total donors, including 6 non-Bhutanese friends of Bhutan. Region Total Amount Raised Total Contributors Non-Bhutanese Donors Ontario (ABO) CAD $27,108.00 188 3 British Columbia (BABC) CAD $25,858.00 193 3 Total Nationwide CAD $52,966.00 381 6 To recognize donors and offer a symbolic memento of the project, the Steering Committee introduced a custom coupon system: To further incentivize contributions, appreciation raffle prizes were sponsored by community partners. Toronto-based Fercon Group generously sponsored an iPhone 17 for the Gold Coupon draw, while Druk Happy Sushi and Momo in Vancouver sponsored an Apple Watch for the Silver Coupon draw. Transparency and Community Support Throughout the three-month campaign, weekly donation updates were published on the official ABO website and distributed across official social media channels to ensure public accountability. The Special Steering Committee extended its profound gratitude to His Excellency Ambassador Tenzin Rondel Wangchuk and team, GMC Project Lead Dasho Tashi Dorji and team, corporate sponsors Fercon Group and Druk Happy Sushi and Momo, and every community member across Canada whose generosity made this historic contribution possible. Download Full GMC 108 Stupa Contribution Report For full details, transparency, and the complete donor list from Ontario and British Columbia, you can download the official document below: Download GMC 108 Stupa Contribution Report (PDF)

Unity and Determination: Toronto Phojas Advance to the Chikdril Cup Semifinals

There is a special energy building within Toronto’s sports scene this summer. Beyond the high-stakes games, local tournaments offer a powerful space for cultural communities to connect, support one another, and celebrate shared identity. Exemplifying that spirit is Toronto Phojas, an amateur football team composed of 18 Bhutanese players who have captured local attention through their inspiring run in the Chikdril Cup. Following a strong group stage performance this past weekend at Ourland Park, the squad has officially secured a spot in the semifinals set to take place this coming weekend. But for the team, the journey is about far more than just advancing in a bracket—it is about bringing people together and proudly representing the Bhutanese community on and off the field. Rising to the Challenge Facing some of the region’s most competitive and established squads, Toronto Phojas opened their tournament campaign against reigning champions Toronto Tibet United. Despite a hard-fought battle, the team narrowly conceded a goal in the final minute to finish 2–1. Rather than letting the loss deflate their momentum, the close match instilled the squad with confidence and a positive mindset. They quickly bounced back, holding a tough Pemakoi FC side to a 0–0 draw in a balanced contest, before delivering a defensive masterclass in their final group match. A dominant 2–1 victory over group leaders Gangchenpa FC sealed their place in the final four. Strength in Unity While their tactical discipline and physical presence on the pitch have turned heads, the heart of Toronto Phojas lies in their culture of mutual support and brotherhood. Every player, whether starting on the field or cheering from the bench, understands the value of their contribution to the team’s shared goal. “Currently our team has 18 players, all representing Bhutan. The best thing about this team is unity. Every player understands how important their role is. Whether they are on or off the field, they support each other in every way possible.” said Tshewang Phuntsho, the captain and the team co-ordinator. “I would personally consider this a big achievement, the first Bhutanese team in Toronto to put up such a dominant and physical performance. That’s a big accomplishment for the team.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Toronto PHOJAS 🇨🇦 🤝 🇧🇹 (@toronto_phojas) Semifinal Bound This Weekend As Toronto Phojas prepare for a high-stakes semifinal rematch against Toronto Tibet United this weekend, the entire community stands behind them. Beyond wins and losses, their campaign continues to highlight the power of sports in fostering unity, encouraging local youth, and strengthening community bonds across Ontario. This article is part of ABO’s Community Pulse series, highlighting stories, events, and community happenings involving Bhutanese across Ontario. Follow the Team: Show your support and catch live updates, match highlights, and semifinal coverage by following Toronto Phojas on Instagram (@toronto_phojas).

Khenpo Tashi Tenzin: A Life Offered in Service to the Dharma

In recognition of his years of service, depth of practice, and ongoing commitment to the Dharma, Khenpo Tashi Tenzin was formally conferred the title of Khenpo during His Eminence Tsula Lopen Rinpoche’s Dharma Tour on July 10, 2026 — marking a new chapter in his continuing spiritual responsibility. Born in Kanglung, Bhutan, he showed a deep calling toward the study and practice of Buddhadharma from an early age. His formal education began at Kanglung Buddhist College, where he laid the philosophical and monastic foundations that would shape his life’s path. Khenpo went on to complete a Master’s degree in Buddhist Philosophy at Tango University in 2014, developing a rigorous understanding of the sutras and shastras. Committed to a path that joined scholarship with direct practice, he then undertook a one-year Ngöndro retreat at Chari Goenpa, completing the preliminary practices that prepare the mind for deeper realization. The following year, he entered a three-year retreat at Drolung Goenpa. He emerged in 2019 having received the complete Pelden Drukpai Damnga lineage transmission directly from His Holiness Chabje Jutsen Tenzin Dhendup — a transmission that formally connected him to an unbroken lineage of teachers and entrusted him with the responsibility of preserving and sharing these teachings. In 2020, Khenpo Tashi Tenzin began teaching as a lecturer at Kanglung Shedra, guiding a new generation of students in Buddhist philosophy. He was then appointed Lam of Trimshing Dungkhag in Tashigang, where he served the local community’s spiritual needs for four years with humility and dedication. A new chapter began when His Eminence Tsula Lopen Rinpoche established the Bhutan Dharma Centre in Toronto, Canada, to serve the Bhutanese community and support the practice of Buddhadharma abroad. Khenpo Tashi Tenzin was appointed the centre’s first Lam, a role in which he continues to support the spiritual life of the Bhutanese diaspora and all who visit the centre. May Khenpo Tashi Tenzin continue this path of service with wisdom and compassion, supporting the Bhutanese community in Canada as it builds a new life abroad. May the Bhutan Dharma Centre continue to grow as a place of refuge and learning, and may his work continue to benefit all beings. Sarva Mangalam.

Third Child Plus Programme (TCPP)

The Royal Government of Bhutan has officially launched the Third Child Plus Programme (TCPP), a nationwide initiative designed to support Bhutanese families raising a third child or subsequent children. The programme forms part of Bhutan’s broader efforts to address declining birth rates and strengthen long-term demographic sustainability. What Benefits Does the Programme Provide?Under the TCPP, eligible children will receive a monthly cash benefit of Nu. 10,000 from birth until they reach 3 years of age. According to the programme framework, a fully eligible child may receive up to Nu. 360,000 over the three-year period. Who Is Eligible?The programme covers: Bhutanese Families Living AbroadThe Third Child Plus Programme is also available to Bhutanese families residing abroad, provided the eligibility requirements are met. We encourage Bhutanese parents in Ontario and across Canada to review the programme guidelines and determine whether their children qualify. Why Was the Programme Introduced?Bhutan has experienced a significant decline in birth rates over the past decade. The TCPP was introduced to help ease the financial burden of raising children, support family well-being, and contribute to Bhutan’s long-term social and economic development. The programme also aims to improve maternal and child health outcomes by providing additional support during a child’s early years. Learn More and ApplyFor enrolment assistance and additional information, please contact: WhatsApp: +975 17191199Email: g2c@cabinet.gov.bt Download the Official GuidelinesMembers are encouraged to download and review the official Third Child Plus Programme (TCPP) Framework and Implementation Guideline for complete details regarding eligibility, enrolment, and benefit administration. The Association of Bhutanese in Ontario (ABO) encourages all eligible Bhutanese families to share this information with friends and relatives who may benefit from this important initiative.

Toronto Phojas to Participate in South Asian Community Soccer Tournament

As football fever continues to grip Canada during the FIFA World Cup, a group of young Bhutanese football enthusiasts in Toronto are preparing for a milestone of their own. Toronto Phojas, a team formed less than six months ago by Bhutanese players in the Greater Toronto Area, will participate in the Shadhin Open Soccer Championship on June 28 at Oakridge Park Soccer Field in Toronto. The amateur tournament will bring together teams from several South Asian and Himalayan communities for a day of competition and camaraderie. For Toronto Phojas, however, the event marks something more significant: their first official tournament as a team. According to team coordinator Tshewang Phuntsho, the decision to participate was driven by a desire to connect with Toronto’s wider football community while testing the progress the team has made over the past few months. “Each player in our team has been working hard these past few months and this tournament will provide a platform to both showcase and challenge these skills,” he said. Made up of players united by their passion for football, the team has been training regularly and playing friendly matches across the city in preparation for the tournament. Tshewang believes those efforts have helped build confidence and strengthen the team’s chemistry on and off the field. “We came together as this team less than six months ago, and we are very proud of how far we have come,” he said. “This team represents the strength in consistency and the power of passion.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Toronto PHOJAS 🇨🇦 🤝 🇧🇹 (@toronto_phojas) Beyond the matches themselves, the tournament is also an opportunity for members of the Bhutanese community to come together around a shared love of the sport. Many of the players grew up playing and following football in Bhutan and now find themselves pursuing the same passion in Canada during a summer when the country is hosting the FIFA World Cup. Toronto Phojas will begin their campaign with the following group-stage fixtures: Fixtures 9:30 a.m. – Toronto Phojas vs Nepal2:00 p.m. – Toronto Phojas vs Bangladesh Red Date: Sunday, June 28, 2026Venue: Oakridge Park Soccer Field, Toronto This article is part of ABO’s Community Pulse series, highlighting stories, events, and community happenings involving Bhutanese across Ontario.

FIFA World Cup 2026: What Bhutanese in Ontario Should Know

In less than a month, Toronto will welcome FIFA World Cup 2026, bringing one of the world’s biggest sporting events into the middle of everyday life across the city. For many Bhutanese in Ontario, the tournament may not simply be something watched on television. It may shape work schedules, commuting routines, downtown travel, weekend plans, and daily movement throughout June and early July. Those working in hospitality, food delivery, rideshare services, transportation, retail, and event-related businesses may especially notice the change as visitor activity increases across Toronto. Toronto’s first World Cup match is scheduled for June 12, 2026 at BMO Field, officially referred to by FIFA during the tournament as Toronto Stadium, in Exhibition Place. In total, the city will host six matches during the tournament. As preparations continue, organizers and city officials are already warning residents to expect major transportation impacts around parts of downtown Toronto. According to official transportation planning updates from FIFA World Cup Toronto, areas surrounding Exhibition Place, Liberty Village, Fort York, Lake Shore Boulevard, Fleet Street, Dufferin Street, and Strachan Avenue are expected to experience increased congestion, heavier pedestrian activity, and temporary movement restrictions during match days. The City of Toronto’s resident information page also states that public parking near BMO Field will be extremely limited and that some nearby roads may operate under temporary closures or controlled local access during tournament operations. To reduce congestion, the city is encouraging residents and visitors to rely mainly on TTC and GO Transit throughout the tournament period as part of its “transit-first” strategy. Beyond the matches themselves, Toronto is also preparing fan festivals, public viewing spaces, entertainment programming, and cultural activities connected to the World Cup. Additional details regarding fan zones, accessibility services, safety planning, and public events are expected to continue rolling out in the coming weeks through official city channels. For Bhutanese families living across Ontario, the tournament may become one of those rare moments where a global event feels unusually close to home. Whether through football gatherings among friends, crowded subway rides after work, late-night match conversations, or simply watching the city transform during the summer, the World Cup is expected to become part of Toronto’s atmosphere for several weeks. Toronto Match Schedule According to the official FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule, Toronto will host the following matches at BMO Field: Friday, June 12, 2026 Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Group B 3:00 PMET Wednesday, June 17, 2026 Tunisia vs New Zealand Group F 3:00 PMET Saturday, June 20, 2026 South Korea vs Paraguay Group E 6:00 PMET Tuesday, June 23, 2026 Canada vs Greece Group B 9:00 PMET Friday, June 26, 2026 Senegal vs Austria Group G 6:00 PMET Thursday, July 2, 2026 Round of 32 Match Knockout Stage 9:00 PMET Useful Resources

H.E. Tsulga Lopen Karma Rangdol Rinpoche’s Spiritual Visit to Toronto

The Bhutanese community in Toronto is honored to welcome H.E. Tsulga Lopen Karma Rangdol Rinpoche and entourage for a sacred spiritual visit from June 28 to July 10, 2026. Hosted by the Bhutan Dharma Center, the visit will feature a series of blessings, wang empowerments, rimdros, prayers, and community gatherings dedicated to peace, wellbeing, and the preservation of Bhutanese Buddhist traditions in Canada. Over the course of the visit, devotees and community members will have the rare opportunity to receive important spiritual teachings and participate in ceremonies including Zhingdrup, Yoepame Wang, Drolkar Wang, Thoe Theng Rig Nga Wang, Zambala Wang, Singye Tsewa Wang, Drakpo Marchen, Jab Zhe, and Tse Chok & Namsey Tsheringma. Community members are warmly encouraged to attend, participate, and support the spiritual activities throughout Rinpoche’s visit. Toronto Program Schedule Date Program Remarks June 28 Arrival Reception at airport June 29 Rest June 30 – July 2 ZhingdrupYoepame Wang (3rd day) For the benefit of all community members. Community members are requested to support and participate. July 3 Visit to Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden July 4 AM: Drolkar WangPM: Thoe Theng Rig Nga Wang For the benefit of all community members. Community members are requested to support and participate. July 5 AM: Zambala WangPM: Singye Tsewa Wang, Lung & Tshokhor July 6 Rest / Visits July 7 Community RimdroDrakpo Marchen & Jab Zhe For the benefit of all community members. Community members are requested to support and participate. July 8 Community RimdroTse Chok & Namsey Tsheringma July 9 Rest / Khamsang Kago in the evening, dinner with Rinpoche, and cultural program July 10 Departure for Vancouver See off at airport

Project 108: A Sacred Call That Reaches Every Bhutanese Heart

Project 108 is a Royal initiative announced by His Majesty The King to build 108 Jangchub Chortens in Gelephu Mindfulness City. For Bhutanese in Ontario and around the world, it is more than a sacred project in Bhutan. It is a call to remember who we are, where we come from, and what we can build together through faith, service, and unity.

Recognizing Asian Heritage Month in Canada

May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada, a time to recognize the history, culture, and contributions of Asian communities across the country. For the Bhutanese community in Ontario, this month is a meaningful opportunity to reflect on our own heritage while also recognizing the many Asian cultures that continue to shape Canada’s multicultural identity. From language and food to faith, family, music, art, and community traditions, Asian Heritage Month reminds us that every community carries stories worth preserving and sharing. As Bhutanese in Canada, we bring with us a unique cultural identity rooted in compassion, spirituality, respect for elders, and a deep connection to community. These values continue to guide how we support one another, raise our families, and contribute to life in Ontario. Asian Heritage Month is also a reminder that multiculturalism is not only about celebration. It is about understanding, belonging, and making space for communities to be seen and heard. For newer and smaller communities like ours, this recognition matters. It gives us an opportunity to share who we are, honour where we come from, and build stronger connections with our neighbours. The Association of Bhutanese in Ontario recognizes Asian Heritage Month as an important time to celebrate diversity, strengthen community pride, and continue preserving Bhutanese culture for future generations.