Buddha Shakyamuni was the founder of Buddhism. He lived and taught in India over two thousand years ago. He revealed a spiritual path which millions of people around the world follow today. The philosophy behind his teachings is that happiness and good fortune arise from a peaceful and positive state of mind. 

Kadampa Buddhism is a Mahayana Buddhist school founded by Master Atisha (AD 982-1054) and followers are called 'Kadampas'.'Ka' refers to the teachings of Buddha and 'dam' refers to Atisha's Lamrim instruction known as the path to enlightenment. Following the instructions of Lamrim, Kadampas put Buddha's teachings into practice. Later, Kadampa Buddhism was promoted by Je Tsongkhapa in Tibet and it gained new prominance. Followers then became known as the 'New Kadampas'.

Kadampa Buddhists integrate Buddha's teachings and the practice of Lamrim in their daily activities transforming every action into a step on the path to enlightenment. Great Kadampa Teachers are known for their application of these teachings which create an immence purity and sincerity. 

Due to the deication of Buddhist Master, Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, Kadampa Buddhism spread to many countries throughout the world. This was done through his extensive teachings and books, as well as the establishment of the International Temples Project and the foundation of the New Kadampa Tradition - the International Kadampa Buddhist Union. It is throught this initiative that Buddhism was able to reach Barbados. The Tara Kadampa Buddhist Centre, in Barbados, is a member of the New Kadampa Tradition. Through study and meditation, and putting Buddha's teachings into practice, it is discovered that they are numerous peacable ways to resolve daily difficulties.