The Diamond Way Buddhist Center Austin is part of an international network of more than 500 meditation centers and groups in the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The centers were founded and are directed by Lama Ole Nydahl according to the wishes of H.H. the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa. They are now under the spiritual guidance of H.H. the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa, Thaye Dorje. In the United States there are 35 centers and groups. They operate under Diamond Way Buddhist Centers USA, which is a non-profit religious organization.