Vicky Sharma
About Vicky Sharma
Vicky, a self-taught visual artist and social entrepreneur from Kalimpong, leads Muhaan with a vision to connect communities through tourism. As a founding member of the Neora Valley Sustainable Ecological Society, Vicky collaborates with forest communities to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about ecological issues. His artistic endeavours not only highlight the beauty of the region but also emphasise the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and cultural heritage. Vicky’s visual storytelling captures the essence of life and the breathtaking landscapes of the Darjeeling Hills and Eastern Himalayas, sparking vital conversations about our relationship with nature and the importance of adapting to change.
They aim to promote nature-positive tourism and immersive programmes that foster conservation and empower forest communities through inclusive knowledge sharing.
About their project: :
Living with the Forest Centre project seeks to create a model for harmonious coexistence with forests near Neora Valley National Park. It prioritises sustainable, community-led tourism initiatives that empower local populations while conserving cultural practices and heritage. By partnering with traditional knowledge keepers and local forest communities, the Centre fosters nature-positive, community-based tourism. It offers immersive programmes and ecological practices that support community-led conservation and empower forest communities through knowledge exchange and collaborative efforts.
The mission of the Living with the Forest Centre is to protect and celebrate the ecological, traditional, and cultural narratives of forest and rural communities. By documenting and sharing this invaluable knowledge, the project aims to develop replicable models of sustainable tourism for rural communities worldwide. Through experiential learning programmes and workshops, the Centre facilitates a meaningful exchange of ideas between local and global communities, enhancing traditional livelihoods and integrating them into modern economies, all while preserving ecological and biocultural balance. Arunavha and Vicky's dedication extends beyond environmental preservation; they strive to inspire a new generation to envision and build a future where humans and nature thrive together.
