About us

We are on mission for great changes

Exploring Womanhood Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the empowerment of women, particularly women rangers and ladies from forest-dwelling communities. We believe in fostering a world where women are recognized and empowered for their vital contributions to nature conservation.

As per the International Ranger Federation, rangers are individuals committed to the practical protection and preservation of wild areas, historical sites, and cultural heritage. They also facilitate recreational opportunities and interpret sites, bridging the gap between local communities, protected areas, and administration. We consider women rangers an integral part of ecosystem conservation teams, deserving of equal standing with their male counterparts.

Mrs. Deepali Atul Deokar is the visionary Founder and Director of Exploring Womanhood Foundation. Since 2014, she has passionately worked in conservation and awareness, leading numerous programs and lectures for women rangers, their families, and tribal youth. Her dedication extends to co-authoring an international paper on the effects of COVID-19 on rangers and their families.

She has been recognized and felicitated by prestigious institutions like Pench Tiger Reserve and PRATHAM Institute. Mrs. Deokar is a respected voice on international platforms, having been invited as a panelist by the International Ranger Federation and as a speaker at a Global Festival program by National Geographic Explorer.

Deepali Atul Deokar

Founder

OUR MISSION

Our core mission is to uplift women, especially those serving as forest rangers and those residing in forest-dependent communities. We aim to create a supportive environment where women can thrive and contribute significantly to environmental protection.

OUR VISION

We envision a future where women are equally represented and celebrated in the field of nature conservation, with their invaluable efforts fully recognized and supported globally.

Empowering Women, Protecting Nature

Dedicated to uplifting women rangers and forest-dwelling communities

Women Empowerment

Promoting and motivating empowerment activities. Skill development programs for Self-Help Groups. Awareness campaigns against sexual harassment and domestic violence.

Strengthening Women Rangers

"Van Durga" Awards and special awards for "Spouse of Ranger". Workshops on workplace sexual harassment and violence. Providing technical support like rescue tools and field guides.

Ranger & Family Welfare

Advocating for their issues at policy levels. Promoting activities for the well-being of ranger families. Encouraging research activities for rangers.

Capacity Building for Communities

Skill development training for nature guides (especially women). Providing alternative livelihood opportunities. Raising awareness about biodiversity conservation and health camps.

Women rangers are integral to ecosystem conservation and must be treated as equals to their male counterparts. Despite women constituting nearly half the world’s population, they represent only 11% of the ranger community. At Exploring Womanhood Foundation, we are committed to changing this narrative by celebrating the extraordinary contributions of women rangers and advocating for their increased representation. Our flagship initiative, the 'Van Durga' award, honors women rangers for their exceptional work in protection, conservation, eco-tourism, and nature interpretation, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
Deepali Atul Deokar