About Us

About Our Story

ZenJi began with a simple idea: that everyone deserves a place of quiet refuge. What started as a small Monday night meditation circle among friends has blossomed into a vibrant, multi-location community.

Our mission is to be your haven—a dedicated space away from the daily hustle where you can truly unwind, practice, and connect. We're built on the principles of mindfulness, kindness, and shared growth. We’re more than a meditation club; we're your partners in cultivating a more present and insightful life.

"Becoming a better version of oneself has always been the goal we aspire to bring to everyone."

History

The story of ZenJi begins not in a formal hall, but in a humble Sheridan College dorm room. In 2015, a small group of students, overwhelmed by deadlines and the pressures of academic life, started meeting weekly to practice mindfulness. Their goal was simple: to find a few moments of peace together.

What started as an informal "Monday Night Sit" quickly resonated with others. Word spread through the Faculty of Animation and Arts, and soon, students from nursing, business, and engineering were squeezing into that small space, finding common ground in silence.

Our Growth on Campus

🌟The Foundational Years (2015-2018):For three years, we were a student-led initiative, moving from dorm common rooms to borrowed classroom spaces as our community grew.

🌟Official Recognition (2019):Recognizing the profound impact on student well-being, Sheridan College officially welcomed ZenJi as a sanctioned campus club, providing us with a dedicated, permanent home.

🌟Becoming a Community Pillar (2020-Present):Today, while our roots are deeply embedded in the student experience, ZenJi has blossomed into a resource for the entire college community—welcoming students, faculty, staff, and local residents alike. Our presence at Sheridan is a testament to the college's commitment to educating not just the mind, but the whole person.

Meet Your Guides

Our teachers are the heart of ZenJi, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a shared passion for guiding others. (Suggestion: Use professional, welcoming headshots for each teacher.)

Our instructors

Sensei Akari (Founding Teacher)

With over 20 years of dedicated practice, Akari is the guiding light of our community. She specializes in Vipassanā (Insight) meditation and leads our advanced retreats, sharing her deep belief in the transformative power of mindful awareness.

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Liam Chen (Beginner's Guide)

Liam has a gift for making meditation accessible and deeply rewarding. He is an expert in stress-reduction and loving-kindness (Mettā) practice, and he lovingly leads our Introduction to Meditation course, helping newcomers build a gentle, sustainable practice.

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Dr. Sarah Jha (Mindfulness & Science)

Sarah beautifully bridges the worlds of traditional practice and modern science. With a background in cognitive psychology, she offers unique workshops that explore the science of mindfulness for managing anxiety and enhancing focus.

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Your Questions, Answered

❓I'm a complete beginner. Where do I start?You're in the right place! We highly recommend our Introduction to Meditation Course—a friendly, four-week program designed to give you a solid foundation. Or, feel free to drop into any Monday Evening Community Sit; they are always welcoming to newcomers.

❓Do I need to be Buddhist or spiritual to join?Not at all. ZenJi is a secular community focused on the universal, practical benefits of mindfulness. We welcome people from all walks of life, beliefs, and backgrounds.

❓What should I wear or bring?Just yourself in comfortable clothes you can easily sit in. You don't need to bring a thing—we provide all the cushions and chairs you'll need.

❓Do I have to be a member to come?No! Our Intro Course and many of our public sessions are open to everyone. Membership is for those who want unlimited access to our daily sessions and special discounts on workshops.

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