08/16/2025
Odisha Girl Among 2025 International Young Eco-Hero Award Winners
13-year-old wins global recognition
San Francisco – Today, Action for Nature announced that Harsita Priyadarshini Mohanty, a 13-year-old from Koraput, Odisha, India, is one of fifteen young environmental activists from across the globe to receive a 2025 International Young Eco-Hero Award. Harsita won second place in this award, which honors eco-conscious youth ages 8 to 16 who are taking crucial steps to solve tough environmental problems.
Harsita received recognition for the “Harsita Priyadarshini Indigenous Seed and Grain Bank,” a vital initiative born from her self-funded efforts and deep commitment to sustainable farming after witnessing the detrimental effects of global warming and climate change on local biodiversity. Inspired by the pioneering work of Padmashree Kamala Pujari, a tribal legend in seed conservation, Harsita is deeply rooted in her rural, tribal-dominated community.
Harsita was selected as a first-place winner of the International Young Eco-Hero Award by a panel of independent judges, including experts in environmental science, biology, and education. For the past 22 years, Action For Nature has recognized 360 Eco-Heroes from 40 countries and 39 U.S. states.
“While leaders worldwide struggle to protect the environment, global youth activists constantly remind us that transformative change often starts small. From Burundi to San Antonio, Texas, this year’s Eco-Heroes are another powerful reminder that the future of our planet is in good hands,” said Beryl Kay, president of Action for Nature “By honoring the trailblazing work of young environmental activists worldwide, we are celebrating the hope, creativity, and passion we all need to harness in order to protect the Earth.”
“I hope my activism motivates more youth to take a modern approach to agriculture,” Harsita added. “Like technological innovation, innovation should be applied to agriculture to ensure a sustainable food future.”
To learn more about Harsita’s work, visit: https://theorganicmagazine.com/meet-the-plantpreneur/harsh*ta-priyadarshini-mohanty-odishas-seed-girl-on-a-mission-to-preserve-indigenous-grains/
[About SheSight
SheSight is a global digital media platform amplifying the voices, leadership, and stories of women around the world. We publish thoughtful features, expert commentary, and real-world insights on gender, leadership, equity, and impact.
Support Our Mission
Love what we do? Help us continue telling stories that matter.
Support us on Ko-fi every contribution helps us grow this movement.
If you are here, reading this article, you are probably interested in elevating your aspirations, taking bold leadership and leading a more meaningful life. At ShePower Club, we offer worldwide sisterhood for driven women like you! – A platform to connect, develop and amplify your voice]
