Kenya
Theme: S.A.I. (Service, Adoration, Illumination)
The SSSIO International Conference held June 28 to July 1, 2024, welcomed more than 500 participants from 35 countries to Kenya, a land blessed by Swami’s divine presence in July 1968. The opening ceremony featured a vibrant welcome procession, a march of human values by Sathya Sai School children, and a flag march by Young Adults. The three pillars of Service, Adoration, and Illumination embody the eternal spiritual principles taught in the Bhagavad Gita—Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Jnana Yoga. Each day of the conference was dedicated to one of these paths, guiding participants in their spiritual journey.
Dr. Narendranath Reddy, chairman of SSSIO, opened the conference by highlighting the need to prioritize God over material wealth. In his keynote address, H.E. Musalia Mudavadi, prime cabinet secretary of Kenya, recognized the five human values espoused by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba as a “global constitution.” Ms. Namgya C. Khampa, Indian high commissioner to Kenya, described the Sathya Sai mission as a template for global service and spiritual transformation.
Speakers from Nigeria, Kenya, Benin, Ghana, South Africa, and Gabon highlighted the progress of the Sathya Sai Mission in Africa. Leaders from the Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation, the Prasanthi Council, and Zone 9 of SSSIO contributed insights and guidance, reaffirming Swami’s vision and organizational mission.
On Day 3, a motivating speech was delivered by Mr. Eluid Kipchoge EGH, a two-time Olympic Marathon Gold Medalist (2016 and 2020). He said, “Education is the equalizer of life. Your organization is spreading education in Africa and the world.” What a tribute to the Sathya Sai Mission from a true champion of the world.
Daily workshops were held on each of the three conference themes. Delegates actively engaged in discussions and reflections, with summary reports presented on the final day. A panel featuring leaders from Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist faiths—members of the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya—spoke on ‘Service as a Pathway to God.’ A panel of four doctors shared their personal and spiritual journeys through participation in SSSIO healthcare missions, grounded in Swami’s principles for ideal healthcare delivery.
Testimonies from students, teachers, parents, and alumni of the Sathya Sai School in Kisaju moved the audience. These personal stories illustrate the profound and lasting impact of Sathya Sai Education. Dr. Suresh Govind, a member of the Prasanthi Council, led a session to review the progress of SAI100 global initiatives, celebrating the enthusiasm and dedication of SSSIO centers worldwide.
On the final day, international delegates visited two Sathya Sai Schools. The Uthiru School (Nairobi), located in an underprivileged area, stands as a model of discipline, respect, and educational excellence. The Kisaju School in rural Kenya is a larger institution dedicated to academic and spiritual growth. Despite challenges, it remains a beacon of hope for the region, strongly supported by the SSSIO.
The conference concluded with a renewed call to action: carry Swami’s mission of love and service into every heart, home, and nation. The event celebrated not only the spiritual and humanitarian legacy of Sri Sathya Sai Baba but also the unity and dynamism of the African Sai family and the worldwide SSSIO community. The success of the conference stands as a testament to the hard work, hospitality, and dedication of the Zone 9 organizing teams, international volunteers, and SSSIO leaders.
More details on the Conference can be found HERE.
Estonia
Theme: God in Daily Life
The International Conference, themed ‘God in Daily Life,’ was held from August 16–18, 2024, in Pärnu, Estonia, and served as a radiant example of a blissful and heart-fulfilling Sai pilgrimage. Nearly a hundred participants from 12 countries came together to immerse themselves in the divine energy of satsang, spiritual discussions, and universal brotherhood.
Nestled by the Baltic Sea, the charming resort town of Pärnu transformed into a sanctuary for spiritual seekers. The daily schedule included invigorating morning yoga, soulful bhajans, and moments of quiet contemplation. Leisure time allowed for tranquil beach walks, serene park visits, and a river cruise created the perfect setting for reflection and discussions. The collective sharing of personal stories about life with Swami brought the sense of belonging and joy.
In alignment with Bhagawan Baba’s principle of silent service, the event was meticulously planned by dedicated organizers. Mr. Manfred Müller-Gransee, chair of SSSIO Zone 7, and Ms. Martina Alexandra Wildau arrived in Pärnu a week early to oversee the arrangements. The chosen venue, featuring a spacious hall, nearby workshop rooms, and a well-equipped kitchen, enabled smooth and efficient operations. Importantly, the availability of a kitchen made it possible to serve sanctified, high-quality satwic vegetarian food prepared by spiritual chef Mr. Lennart Eistre, with the loving support of the Estonian team.
The diversity of the speakers reflected international unity in practicing Sai values. Each day began with yoga and concluded with multi-national bhajan sessions. The cultural night on Saturday featured vibrant folk dances and songs that further deepened the sense of unity in diversity.
The Estonia 2024 conference was more than an event—it was a living, breathing embodiment of Sai's teachings on love, unity, and service. It presented a model for how spiritual gatherings can enrich lives, forge international friendships, and spread divine vibrations far beyond the physical boundaries of the venue. As one participant aptly put it, “This was not just a conference, it was a divine homecoming.”
More details on the Conference can be found HERE.