Mariana Restrepo

Mariana Restrepo is deputy editor of Buddhadharma Lion’s Roar’s online source for committed Buddhists. Born and raised in Colombia, Mariana has practiced in the Nyingma and Kagyu lineages of Tibetan Buddhism for more than 20 years. Her path has included time as a monastic, long-term retreat, and years of service within retreat centers and dharma organizations. She brings a deep commitment to integrating Buddhist principles into everyday life—especially in the context of parenting and community building.

Mariana holds a Master’s degree in Religious Studies, has taught university-level courses on Buddhism and Indian religions, and has organized large-scale Buddhist events and pilgrimages. She is passionate about making Buddhist teachings accessible and relevant across languages and lived experiences. She currently lives in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina with her husband and two children.

Recent Articles

Scott Tusa on Pilgrimage, Parenting, and Practice in Nepal

Mariana Restrepo, deputy editor of Buddhadharma, speaks with dharma teacher Scott Tusa while on pilgrimage in Nepal, reflecting on the intersections of practice, pilgrimage, and parenting—from shared monastic roots to the realities of everyday life.

FPMT Announces the Reincarnation of Lama Zopa Rinpoche

The Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT) has announced that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has confirmed the reincarnation of their founding teacher, Lama Zopa Rinpoche.

How USAID Cuts Will Impact Buddhist Countries and Communities

Cuts to USAID will have far-reaching consequences worldwide. Here's how Buddhist nations, communities, and refugees might be affected.

Exploring AI and Buddhism: A Conversation with Khyentse Vision Project

Buddhadharma's Mariana Restrepo interviewed KVP's Dolma Gunther, Casey Forgues, and Zack Beer about AI's impact on Buddhism and its significance for translators and practitioners.