Melina Bondy (formerly Sister Ocean) is a queer, white settler honored to live on the colonized land originally named Tkaronto. After studying with True North Insight in Ontario, Canada, they ordained as a monastic under Thich Nhat Hanh in 2012 and spent nine years in robes before returning to lay life in 2021. Now “back in the world” Melina blends Insight and Plum Village practices with a focus on social justice, creative process and radical gratitude to grow compassion, peace and joy in daily life. They’re now looking to share the gift of the monastery with a broader community with a Master’s in Buddhist Spiritual Care from the University of Toronto as well as training in Somatic Experiencing. To learn more go to www.melinabondy.com