DJED Foundation is an inspiring NGO that prioritizes ecology over the economy, dedicating its efforts to the restoration and regeneration of nature while uplifting marginalized communities. With a presence in seven locations across Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan, their impact has been felt far and wide.
In addition to their environmental endeavors, DJED Foundation places great importance on education. Also, DJED Foundation's entrepreneurship initiatives stand as a beacon of hope for local communities, creating ecologically sustainable livelihood opportunities. By fostering self-reliance and promoting the principles of Gram Swaraj, these initiatives seamlessly integrate with the foundation's educational and environmental efforts.
In this interview with TheCSRUniverse, Ms Shilpa Mehta Jain and Mr Dilip Jain,the Directors of DJED Foundation, share their motivations, successes, and future aspirations. Read this interview to uncover the inspiring story behind DJED Foundation and their unwavering commitment to a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.
Q: How has the DJED Foundation's 3E model (Environment, Education, and Entrepreneurship) contributed to the restoration and regeneration of nature in the communities they serve?
A: As a co-founder of DJED Foundation, We are proud of our 3E model (Environment, Education, and Entrepreneurship) and its impact on restoring and regenerating nature. We prioritize ecology over the economy, working with marginalized communities in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. By integrating practical experiences with education, we promote sustainability, environmental awareness, and eco-friendly entrepreneurship. Our initiatives empower communities to take ownership of their surroundings and contribute to nature's restoration. Through hands-on learning and support for sustainable livelihoods, we strive to create a lasting impact. At the DJED Foundation, we believe in the power of community-driven efforts to foster a deep connection to the environment and build a better future.
Q: Could you elaborate on the specific environmental initiatives undertaken by the foundation in Chinchwadi Adivasi village, Hirjipura village, and Jawai Bisalpur village? How have these initiatives impacted the local ecosystems and the lives of the marginalised communities?
A: DJED Foundation has implemented impactful environmental initiatives in Chinchwadi Adivasi village, Hirjipura village, and Jawai Bisalpur village, resulting in significant benefits for both local ecosystems and marginalized communities.
In Chinchwadi Adivasi village, the foundation focused on watershed development, constructing wells, ponds, check dams, bore-well recharge systems and planting over 2000 native saplings. In Hirjipura village, they carried out afforestation projects, planting over 2000 native saplings to create RevAranya forest. Collaborating with Beejvan and New Acropolis, the foundation is implementing three similar afforestation projects in Maharashtra. In Bisalpur village, they created waterholes, ponds, and implemented plastic waste management in the Jawai leopard conservation reserve as part of the Save Jawai Wildlife project.
Additionally, the foundation is distributing 10,000 books to schools in 20 nearby villages, in collaboration with Zebralearn. This initiative aims to educate children about their ecosystem and instil a love for all living beings, nurturing responsible citizens who will care for their habitat in the future.
Overall, DJED Foundation's environmental initiatives in these villages have had a positive impact. Through watershed development, afforestation, waterhole creation, and plastic waste management, they have improved local ecosystems, reduced burdens on marginalized communities, and promoted biodiversity conservation. The foundation's emphasis on education ensures the sustainability of their efforts by fostering environmental awareness among the younger generation.
Q: Can you provide examples of the educational programs implemented by the DJED Foundation, such as the Aadi Maanav Academy, Rann Raani sports program, and the Me2 Kids Club? How have these programs helped in creating awareness about nature and fostering a sense of responsibility among children and young adults?
A: DJED Foundation has implemented various educational programs to raise awareness about nature and foster a sense of responsibility among children and young adults. One such program is the Aadi Maanav Academy, where 20 children study under a Banyan tree in a rural setting. Additionally, 15 teenage girls called Rann Raani Group receive sports training, particularly in Ultimate Frisbee. Despite their background of water-fetching, these girls now compete at the state level. The academy aims to prepare them as problem solvers for their community, as demonstrated by their involvement in repairing a village road and setting up a bore-well recharge system. Exposure trips and participation in cultural events enrich their learning experiences. The community mud school and house also serve as an eco-educational tourism venue, exposing city visitors to rural and ecological lifestyles.
In Mumbai, the Me2 Kids Club has over 100 members. The club sensitises city children to nature, develops their adventure capabilities, and instils a spirit of volunteering. They have organised numerous events, including kayaking, treasure hunts, rappelling, and donation drives. Despite physical challenges from Polio, Shilpa Mehta Jain plays a significant role in organising these activities. The club believes that providing such opportunities is crucial for children to learn essential life skills like managing fear, collaboration, and building relationships. In today's digital age, these skills are even more important as gadgets dominate children's attention.
DJED Foundation also supports education through the Shantilal Mehta Scholarship, enabling 100 individuals with disabilities to pursue the Chartered Accountancy course. These educational programs provide practical and context-based learning experiences. They empower children and young adults to become environmentally conscious individuals capable of making positive contributions to their communities.
Q: In what ways do the entrepreneurship initiatives of the foundation support grassroots communities and promote sustainable livelihood opportunities? Could you provide some examples of successful entrepreneurial ventures facilitated by the foundation?
A: The foundation's entrepreneurship initiatives support grassroots communities by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. One successful venture is the establishment of an eco-edu tourism venture with a tribal youth. We are helping a tea vendor to set up a plastics upcycling facility to save wildlife of Jawai forest in Rajasthan. By employing/ engaging local people and minimising use of machines, we try to empower locals & also create a sense of ownership. Another example is promoting organic farming and forest foods, helping hip hop talents of Dharavi slum to set up a recording studio and so on. These initiatives empower communities economically to become self-sustainable while promoting ecological conservation.
Q: How does the foundation challenge conventional notions of growth and development and promote alternative ways of thinking?
A: We believe that alternative ways of thinking are vital in today's world. We highlight the diminishing significance of human capabilities in an era dominated by technology. Our focus is on restoring and regenerating natural resources, addressing the urgent need for clean air, water, and nutritious food. We encourage the youth to question the prevailing model of growth and development driven by greed and destruction. Instead, we advocate for radical approaches that prioritise the well-being of the planet and its people. Through promoting diverse alternatives, unlearning ineffective practices, and practical application aligned to current context, we aim to overcome the prevailing monoculture of thoughts, words, and actions. Our goal is to inspire others to embrace alternative thinking, creating a sustainable and harmonious future for all. And the first step towards that is offering yourself by walking the path which we are trying to do in our own little way.
Q: Could you elaborate on how partnerships and collaborations have helped you achieve your goals and have there been any particular instances where partnerships with corporates and/or government have been instrumental in your work?
A: Partnerships and collaborations have played a pivotal role in the achievements of DJED Foundation. The Dharavi Dream Project is a noteworthy collaboration where underprivileged children in Dharavi have free access to the "After school of hip-hop," empowering them to express themselves through music, dance, and graphics. The foundation aims to scale up this project by establishing a studio and offering alternative educational programs and skill development opportunities.
Project DEEP is another impactful initiative where the foundation uplifts a village out of poverty through universal and unconditional direct cash transfers. In Krishnapur village, Maharashtra, each household receives a one-time lump sum of INR 65,000 in the bank account of the eldest working woman, without any conditions attached.
DJED Foundation actively participates in the Ecoversities Alliance through the Germinator program, we provide seed funding and mentoring to jumpstart projects that can evolve into full Ecoversities. Additionally, the foundation co-hosted the Learning Societies Unconference in Sardarshahar, Rajasthan, bringing together over 700 learners and practitioners from across India.
Partnerships with corporates and government entities have been instrumental in the foundation's work, leveraging resources, expertise, and networks to achieve shared goals. These collaborations have provided valuable insights, expanded outreach, and amplified the impact of DJED Foundation's initiatives. The support and involvement of these partners have been invaluable in advancing their mission of creating positive change in communities.
Q: What are the future plans and aspirations of your foundation? Please share your immediate and long-term goals.
A: In terms of future plans, DJED Foundation is focused on expanding its impact and furthering its mission. In the short term, they are continuing their watershed development work in three villages, including the construction of check dams and bore well recharge systems. They are also actively involved in creating four new forests with approximately 1000 trees each during May and June 2023. Additionally, the foundation aims to expand its education and sports programs to more villages.
Looking ahead to the long term goals, DJED Foundation is working on developing a partnership model to scale up their initiatives. We seek to empower individuals and organisations that are committed to ecological restoration and educational efforts in their local communities. By leveraging support, seed funding, and their network, the foundation aims to grow tenfold within the next three years. They also strive to minimise administration costs and ensure that the majority of project benefits directly reach those in need on the ground.
Q: Ms. Shilpa, despite facing challenges with polio, you have played a significant role in organising activities for the foundation and even initiated the SMS scholarship to support people with disabilities pursuing a career in CA. Could you share more about your journey and how your perseverance and determination have inspired others within the foundation and the communities you serve?
A: Despite facing challenges with polio, I have always strived to organise activities and initiatives that create a positive change. One such initiative is the SMS scholarship, which supports individuals with disabilities who aspire to pursue a career in Chartered Accountancy.
My journey has been shaped by my educational background, including an MBA from Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management, along with being a Chartered Accountant and having experience in senior management roles in the corporate sector. These experiences have allowed me to develop strong skills in business planning and strategy.
At DJED Fondation, we prioritise the causes of Ecology, Education, and Entrepreneurship. Our aim is to empower Indigenous communities while placing a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Through our work, we strive to achieve a 10 * 10 * 10 impact, training 10 youth who then go on to influence hundreds of people in their local communities, ultimately impacting thousands of individuals in cities. Over the years, we have successfully executed four major projects, expanding our reach to seven villages across three states and positively impacting the lives of over 5000 people.
My personal journey with polio has taught me the value of determination and resilience. I have embraced various activities, from swimming to driving, independently and with unwavering dedication. Being recognized as a CA Special Recognition awardee at the 16th ICAI Annual Awards was a humbling moment.
My husband and I are proud founders of the Me2 Kids Club, where we provide children with experiential learning opportunities and deliver inspirational talks to motivate and empower young minds. It brings me joy to know that my story of perseverance and a never-say-die attitude serves as an inspiration to many.
Q: Mr. Dilip, could you tell us more about your experience in Ladakh during your Development of Corporate Citizenship (DoCC) internship, particularly your collaboration with Sonam Wangchuk on the Ice Stupa Project and the co-founding of HIAL (Himalayan Institute of Alternatives)? How has this experience and your association with Sonam Wangchuk influenced your life and shaped the choices you've made in your journey with the DJED Foundation?
A:In the past I've been in the corporate jobs which I left a decade back and now run my NGO to work with indigenous/ marginalised people on educational and environmental causes.
During my time at SPJIMR from 2003 to 2005, I underwent a profound transformation that reshaped my outlook on life. While academics played a role, it was the non-classroom experiences that left the deepest impact.
An internship in Ladakh introduced me to SonamWangchuk, a friend and mentor who inspired me. I took a sabbatical from my professional career to work on the Ice Stupa Project and co-founded the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL). This endeavor aimed to transform education and create sustainable enterprises.
I had the opportunity to participate in the DOCC project in Ladakh, where I discovered my passion for transforming education and improving the lives of local communities. I formed a close friendship with Sonam Wangchuk, who was working on innovative projects in Ladakh. Over the years, I continued to visit Ladakh and became deeply involved in the Ice Stupa Artificial Glacier project, playing a pivotal role in resource gathering through crowdfunding and networking. In 2016, I travelled with the team to the USA for the Rolex Award for Enterprise.
As the Ice Stupa project gained momentum, we conceived the idea of establishing the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL). I transitioned from my business and dedicated myself full-time to volunteering for HIAL, taking on various responsibilities and managing tasks of all sizes. The institute aims to establish real-life enterprises that financially support each school, allowing students to engage in practical, hands-on projects that not only provide them with free education but also impart contextual knowledge.
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