As well as being the spiritual head of the Shinnyo-en Buddhist Order, Her Holiness Keishu Shinso Ito works tirelessly across the boundaries of religion to promote world peace through cross-cultural exchange, inter-religious dialogue, and the establishment of humanitarian and philanthropic endowments.

Born in 1942 in Japan, Her Holiness became a dedicated student of Buddhism from an early age. After graduating with a degree in literature and philosophy from Taisho University, Her Holiness completed the Shinnyo Dharma training in 1971.  She attained the rank of Buddhist Great Master and was recognized as Shinjo Ito’s most accomplished disciple. In 1992 she received the highest priestly rank of Daisojo from Daigoji monastery in Kyoto and became a major figure in contemporary Japanese Buddhism.

Since that time she has devoted her life to promoting the basic human values of kindness, compassion and peaceful co-existence. She has visited many countries and her relaxed and informal teaching style has made her one of the leading voices in contemporary Buddhism.

Her Holiness believes spiritual wisdom can offer valuable help to a world wishing to avoid the tragedy of violent conflict. She often states that the reason we are alive is to create a happier society, and she is actively committed to working with individuals across a broad spectrum of religions and cultures to achieve that noble goal.