The inspiration for this project was conceived by Thomas Warrior, a founder member of Shambala Trust, who had a powerful vision during a long retreat at Kopan Monastery, Nepal, in 1995. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama appeared in his meditation with a clear message, suggesting the creation of a Dharma centre in the northeast of Scotland. The centre is to be a place of inter-religious exchange and to serve the needs of students and practitioners of all Buddhist traditions in the area.
Thomas shared his vision with his friends and teachers who have since lent tremendous support to this vision, through prayers, guidance, gifts and donations. Among them are His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Khenrinpoche Lama Lhundrup (abbot of Kopan Monastery) and Lama Zopa Rinpoche (spiritual director of Kopan Monastery).
The project also enjoys the support of His Eminence the Khentin Tai Situpa (current holder of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism) and Lama Yeshe (abbot of Kagyu Samye Ling Tibetan Centre in Scotland), who both visited the Findhorn Foundation and Community to offer teachings, refuge and initiations.
Since 1995 Shambala Trust has organised and run regular Buddhist study and practice groups and invited many Buddhist teachers in an effort to build a solid community of Buddhist sangha and supporters and to create the momentum for manifesting the retreat centre.
On 19 September 2001 the Shambala Trust was recognised as a Scottish Charity No. SC 032707 and registered as a Scottish Company No. SC 223339.
