07/03/2026
Dear Shambhala community,
We would like to invite you to an emergency community meeting on Wednesday 11 March to discuss the future and continued existence of the Shambhala Meditation Center in Bangkok. A few days ago our landlord informed us that the building is under new management, and as a result, our rent will increase by 7000 Baht per month, effective immediately! We need to either move out or pay the higher rent.
Over the past year, the center has been operating with significant financial challenges. We have been sustained almost entirely by donations, and despite attempts to introduce paid courses and encourage increased contributions, the income has not been sufficient to cover our ongoing costs. Several expenses have been personally covered by Jamie to help keep the center running, for which we don't have enough money to reimburse. Under these circumstances an increase in rent is not sustainable for us.
Maintaining the center requires consistent daily effort, and more volunteer support is needed to keep the space functioning, not to mention expanding the programs & classes we offer.
Because of these circumstances, we feel it is important to come together as a community and openly discuss the way forward. During this meeting we hope to openly explore questions such as:
What's your vision for the Shambhala Center in Bangkok going forward?
Would it be better for us to stay here or relocate? Possible locations or ideas to relocate?
What ideas do you have on how to increase the financial support to a level that's sustainable to keep the center open?
Are people willing to volunteer time to help keep the organization functioning?
The intention of this meeting is to have an open and constructive conversation about what the Shambhala center means to our community and what future might be possible together.
Meeting details:
Wednesday, 11 March
18:30 PM – approximately 20:00 PM
Shambhala Meditation Center
If this community and practice space has been meaningful to you, your presence and voice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks and best regards,