Bhavna Choudhury: From Assam to Global Advocacy

The idea for The Indegenous began with Bhavna Choudhury’s personal experiences, which evolved into a broader mission. From her early life in Assam, India, to establishing The Indegenous in Paris, there has always been a belief that the answers to today’s global crises lie in the traditional knowledge of indigenous communities. The Indegenous was founded due to the lack of sufficient information online about the treasures of Northeast India and its tribal heritage.

Bhavna’s heritage in the Tai-Ahom community and upbringing in Nagarbera, where sustainability was central, shaped her values. With a degree in industrial engineering from Georgia Tech, she addressed environmental and social challenges through her work in renewable energy. This led her to create The Indegenous, a platform blending indigenous knowledge and modern education to tackle climate change and social justice.

The Indegenous works with over 150 Indigenous groups across North-East India, Western India, and Africa, compiling invaluable datasets on their challenges while advocating for their rights on global platforms like the UNFCCC. But the road has not been easy. “Struggles aren’t just a beginning-of-the-journey thing,” Bhavna explains.

“Every day brings new challenges when you fight for causes that many don’t understand or care about. As a French NGO, I’ve had to navigate colonial barriers, learn the language of diplomacy, and find ways to build consensus with Indigenous communities globally. Yet, these struggles fuel our commitment to fight for Indigenous rights.”

With an unwavering focus on sustainable practices and social justice, The Indegenous ensures that the voices of the Global South echo across the world.

“Fighting for our forests, our heritage, and our food cultures is not just about preserving the past—it’s about ensuring a future where Indigenous communities are respected, represented, and thriving,” Bhavna affirms.