About
Ayya Khema (1923–1997) was a German-born Theravada Buddhist nun who became one of the most prominent female Buddhist teachers in the West. She was the first Western woman to receive full ordination in the Theravada tradition and founded several meditation centers including Parappuduwa Nuns Island in Sri Lanka. She authored many books including 'Being Nobody, Going Nowhere' and 'When the Iron Eagle Flies.' She was also instrumental in founding the Alliance for Bhikkhunis.