In a landmark event that underscored a commitment to rethinking progress, the Gross National Happiness (GNH) Centre Australia hosted the Well-being Dialogue Series at the Small Giants Academy yesterday. The event, part of a burgeoning international movement inspired by Bhutan’s pioneering GNH philosophy, highlighted the critical need to shift focus from mere economic growth to holistic societal development.
Established just six months ago in August 2024, the GNH Centre Australia is the third international branch dedicated to promoting Gross National Happiness, following its illustrious sister organization in Bhutan. The Centre’s rapid emergence on the global stage signals an expanding interest in wellbeing economies—a model that prioritizes environmental sustainability, social equity, and community health over conventional financial metrics.
The event was graced by a stellar lineup of dignitaries and thought leaders. Her Royal Highness Ashi Kesang Chodren Wangchuck delivered the keynote address, drawing attention to the enduring bond between Bhutan and Australia. “This GNH Centre in Australia and in other countries will hopefully lead a global movement that redefines human civilization and progress, prioritizing the wellbeing of not only humans but all interdependent life on the planet,” she declared, emphasizing the pivotal role that global GNH Centres can play in addressing contemporary challenges.
HRH Wangchuck further articulated that while Bhutan’s policy-driven approach to GNH has been highly effective, the true impact lies in the deep internalization of GNH values at the individual, family, and community levels. “It is this grassroots embodiment of happiness and wellbeing that will ultimately determine whether we can prosper as a human-centered, inclusive, and sustainable society,” she remarked.
Adding to the event’s prestige, Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck—recently honored with an Honorary Doctorate by Murdoch University in Perth—along with their Royal Highnesses Ashi Chimi Yangzom Wangchuck and Dasho Ugyen Jigme Wangchuck, lent their support, symbolizing the unwavering commitment of Bhutan’s royal family to global wellbeing initiatives.
Under the leadership of Mr. Danny Almagor, the GNH Centre Australia is poised to be a dynamic catalyst for change. The Centre aims to spark a global dialogue on reimagining progress by championing an inclusive model of growth that places wellbeing at its core. The event also attracted significant representation from the diplomatic community, including HC Dato’ Adam Htoon, Ambassador Sonam Tobgay, the Honorary Consul of Bhutan to Melbourne, and Julia Booth, HC of Bhutan to Sydney.
The Well-being Dialogue Series marks a significant step forward in strengthening ties between Bhutan and Australia, reinforcing the message that sustainable progress requires an unwavering commitment to the happiness and wellbeing of all living beings. As the world grapples with complex challenges, the insights shared during yesterday’s event provide a hopeful roadmap for a future where economic policies are intertwined with the fundamental human pursuit of happiness.
With growing momentum behind the GNH movement, the GNH Centre Australia is setting the stage for a transformative shift in how societies define and achieve progress—a shift that may well reshape our collective future.
