Who we are

Founder

Dr. Rima Vesely-Flad

I am the Founding Director of the Initiative for Black Buddhist Studies and a Research Fellow at the Institute of Buddhist Studies. I am the author of The Fire Inside: The Dharma of James Baldwin and Audre Lorde (North Atlantic Books, 2026), among two other books.

A twice-awarded Fulbright Scholar, I have spent my career bringing together Black radical thought, contemplative practice, and the wisdom of ancestors — and making it accessible beyond the walls of academia.

Co-Teacher

Rashid Hughes

I am an intersectional-contemplative teacher and restorative justice facilitator.

My practice involves actively envisioning a transformed world where everyone can exist free from the pain reinforced by systems of othering, domination, and disembodiment.

By utilizing various contemplative practices and healing-centered ways of knowing, I assist individuals in rediscovering belonging and meaning within the unique expressiveness of their individual embodiment.

Communications Director

Sandra Hannebohm

I partner with Black Buddhist Studies to spread the word about its projects through comprehensive communications support including brand design, website management, podcast and onlince course production.

Twice As Good Media is a digital media production company that offers sustainable digital media production practices and services for values-driven organizations.