Born in The Netherlands, Anne-Marie grew up near a monastery amidst catholic missionary nuns; her social and spiritual interests are rooted in her childhood and over the years developed in various ways.

She pursued her studies in Social Science and started working as a lecturer Communication in higher education. Though she had a wonderful job, she aspired to work in development cooperation. She resigned and moved abroad, which turned out to be a successful adventure. She lived in Asia (India, Bhutan and Myanmar) for more than 15 years, and in Africa (Rwanda and Ethiopia) around 10 years and undertook assignments in Afghanistan and Cambodia. She found her calling in working with people in NGOs and governments on organizational and institutional change and leadership challenges. She did so in different capacities, as trainer, coach, advisor and project manager.

Her friends in Asia introduced her to Tibetan Buddhism and she participated in various Buddhist teachings and pilgrimages. It just felt so common and natural; how special it was, she realized when back in The Netherlands. Looking for spiritual connection, she got involved in the Nyingma Center in Amsterdam and being introduced to Sarnath International Nyingma Institute (SINI), was an experience coming full circle: long ago, during her posting in India, she had worked in a women’s empowerment project and had enjoyed Buddhist festivals in Sarnath.

The vision of SINI – connecting wisdom, knowledge and best practices of the East and the West – has opened opportunities to deepen my spiritual journey. I believe that we can take responsibility for our own change; that we are capable to better understand ourselves and others and to learn and share for wellbeing and peace of all beings everywhere. It might sound a bit serious but with a bit of humor wonders happen!