NTiLearn | Nan Tien Institute

Presented by Dr Phillip Spendley Ph.D, C. Biol., MRSB, MPS

27 August 2025

12.30-1.30pm (AEST)

This event will be held on campus and online via zoom. For those joining us online, a zoom link will be sent the day prior and the day of the event

Join us for a fascinating exploration of Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) - a phenomenon with roots in ancient history, that is gaining increased attention and credibility in the scientific community.

Once considered fringe, NDEs are now supported by a substantial body of research, with studies published in various scientific journals, while being well documented within popular culture. This presentation will offer an overview of key findings, highlight the consistent nature of NDEs across cultures and belief systems, and examine their potential implications for how we understand death, consciousness, and the continuation of self.

From a clinical perspective, sharing this knowledge with those approaching the end of life, and their loved ones, can bring comfort, reduce fear, and reframe death as a transition rather than a final event. We’ll also touch on the remarkable accounts of remote observation during NDEs and what they may reveal about consciousness itself, potentially offering new insights into the enduring mystery known as the “hard problem” in consciousness research.

About the Presenter:

With a professional background in hospital pharmacy, Phillip Spendley initially trained as a pharmacist before completing a Ph.D. in microbiology. Over the course of his career, he has worked across both technical services and direct patient care, bringing strong clinical and scientific foundation to his work.

Phillip’s interest in Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) began unexpectedly, after being asked to present on the topic—despite having no prior knowledge in the area! What followed was a deep dive into the growing body of high-quality research and firsthand accounts that now support NDEs as a significant and credible phenomenon. Like many others in the scientific and medical community, Phillip, has come to see the study of NDEs as both meaningful and worthy of further exploration.

Tickets are fee, however registration is essential. Please register here 

A Buddhist Perspective on a future beyond Extractivism

Presented by Brother Tenzin and NTI students Jacob Tan and Gabriela Guerrero Alonso.   

20 August 2025

2-3.30pm (AEST)

This event will be held online via zoom. A zoom link will be sent the day prior and the day of the event

Environmental crises are affecting everyone on this planet and the effects of these crises are becoming more palpable. The logic of extractivism often underpins our current crises, with industrialisation, population growth and urbanization, rapidly globalising the world. Such a logic causes significant ecological and social imbalances, but also highlights the spiritual aspects of our time and relationships with the environment and other beings. Join Brother Tenzin (Dr. Alex Anderson), and NTI students Jacob Tan and Gabriela Guerrero Alonso, to explore the holistic potential of Buddhist teachings in healing our illusion of separation from each other and the natural world.

About the Presenters:

Brother Tenzin (Dr. Alex Anderson) is an Australian Buddhist monk and an ecologist specialising in climate change impacts on biodiversity, deep ecology and environmental activism. Based at Gaia Forest – a remaining rainforest in mid-north NSW – he works at the intersection of environmental and human spiritual conservation, applying mindfulness to living in harmony within oneself, community and the natural world.

NTI student Jacob Tan is a former healthcare worker in marginalised communities, and Buddhist Chan philosopher who sees Mother Nature as a great teacher. Jacob believes the climate crisis is ultimately a spiritual crisis, and that recognising the interconnected nature of all life should be humanity’s priority.

NTI student Gabriela Guerrero Alonso is a sociologist and environmental advocate who works to amplify marginalised voices and foster systemic change. Her work explores the intersection of ecological justice, spirituality, and community empowerment, based on her experience working alongside Indigenous communities and small-scale farmers in Colombia.

Beyond Othering: Buddhist and Christian Relational Perspective in Dialogue

Presented by Philip Bewley

16 July 2025

1-2pm (AEST)

This event will be held online via zoom. A zoom link will be sent the day prior and the day of the event

This conversation looks at Thich Nhat Hanh’s idea of interbeing, which teaches that everything is connected, and nothing exists on its own. It compares this idea with a similar way of thinking from the Christian tradition. Together, these views show how understanding our deep connection with others can lead to more compassionate actions, help us overcome division, and encourage a more welcoming and inclusive way of living.

About the Presenter:

Philip Bewley is an alumnus of Nan Tien Institute and a doctoral candidate at the Catholic Theological College, University of Divinity (Melbourne), where he researches comparative theology at the intersection of Buddhist-Christian dialogue. With a longstanding interest in interfaith engagement, his academic work bridges traditions—from his MA at the University of Wollongong (examining the Dutch Catholic Church’s progressive pastoral care of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the 1960s) to his current project comparing the relational ontologies of Orthodox theologian John Zizioulas and Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. His research highlights how both thinkers challenge notions of ‘othering’ and ‘otherness,’ offering transformative frameworks for identity, belonging, and embodied praxis.

NTI conversations are free; however, registration is essential. Register here