Leela Gowda’s story: Building on a mother’s legacy

The hum of travellers' conversations was the soundtrack of Leela Gowda's childhood in Mandla, a small district in Madhya Pradesh. Her mother, Rama Bai, had started the village’s first homestay – a decision that not only brought financial stability but also ignited dreams within Gowda. 

"My mother started this homestay when most women here had never even spoken to outsiders," she explains, gesturing toward the vibrant, welcoming space that was once just a simple family home. "I watched her welcome guests from across the world, despite knowing very little English or not having formal education." 

As young Gowda accompanied visitors on walks through the village, pointing out medicinal plants and sharing folk tales, she discovered her own talent: storytelling.

Encouraged by her mother and supported by Adhar, a grassroots organization, Gowda pursued formal training through the Safe Tourism Destination for Women programme. She became a certified local guide, receiving comprehensive training that gave her practical skills in tourism management, conservation awareness and cultural interpretation. 

While gaining her footing in the male-dominated field, Gowda often faced skepticism. Some questioned her ability to lead tours, manage logistics or explain the region's history. "I knew that my knowledge and passion spoke louder than the doubts," she says confidently. "And every satisfied guest was proof that I belonged." 

Now, under her leadership, the family homestay has grown into a vibrant, sustainable business. She connects her guests to local artisans, farmers, and weavers – benefiting the broader community. 

"The training taught me to see our village through new eyes," she explains. "What seems ordinary to us – our daily customs, our relationship with the forest, even our cooking methods – is fascinating to visitors."

The Safe Tourism Destination for Women programme has set goals to

Train 10,000 women in hospitality

Train 40,000 women in self-defense

Reach women in 50 destinations across Madhya Pradesh

The ripple effect: Beyond individual success stories

To build capacity for more women-led tourism, the Safe Tourism Destination for Women programme has set out to train 10,000 women in hospitality and 40,000 in self-defence across 50 destinations across Madhya Pradesh. 

"When a woman becomes visible in public space, she reclaims it – not just for herself, but for all women," says Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of MPTB. "That's what this programme is doing." 

The impacts from economic empowerment models like this extend far beyond individuals. Gowda, for instance, now mentors young girls in the village. "My mother created a door, and I'm trying to build hallways," she explains. "When girls in my village see me leading a tour or managing the homestay, they see what's possible. And that's how real change begins." 

This is our moment to act

For 15 years, UN Women has worked with all women and girls, for women’s rights and gender equality. We will never give up. Now is the time to stand with us. You have the power to protect progress, sustain local women leaders, and deliver true change. 

We are experienced enough to deliver. We are bold enough to transform.