Poonam's journey from the Himalayas of India to the forefront of Community-Based Tourism is nothing short of inspirational – filled with determination, compassion, and a deep-rooted commitment to making a difference.Poonam's life has been marked by constant movement and transformation. Every three years she found herself in a new corner of the globe. In 2009, amidst her corporate career, she was struck by a profound realization and stark awareness of the dire situations confronting young widows and victims of domestic violence in her homeland. “Witnessing this plight ignited a sense of purpose within me, compelling me to take action,” said Poonam. “Thus, I embarked on the ambitious endeavor of establishing our humble responsible travel project in the Himalayas, led and run by women.” And so, Fernweh Fair Travel was born.
Fernweh Fair Travel provides livelihood to local women by training them as tour guides and helping them to develop other skills as artisans, homestay hosts, and more. Fernweh also works to educate both locals and guests on environmental conservation, emphasizing waste management techniques, preservation of native species, and responsible tourism practices.
The company stands as a testament to the transformative power of Community-Based Tourism - with over 557 locals engaged in the project, including an impressive 507 women, the impact has been profound. And Poonam has ensured that women play integral roles in every facet of their organization. She shares, "they serve as guides, hosts, cooks, leaders of special programs, village representatives, members of clean village programs, and much more. With solid financial backing, these women now walk with confidence, knowing they have achieved independence and are proud providers for their families".
Poonam believes that Community-Based Tourism not only empowers communities and creates a significant local impact, but also offers guests authentic and unforgettable experiences. However, Poonam cautions, “it’s crucial to be mindful of preventing Community-Based Tourism from evolving into mass tourism. Preserving the unique culture and environment of the community must remain a top priority.”
As a successful woman in the travel industry, Poonam's journey is a beacon of hope for other aspiring entrepreneurs. Despite facing numerous challenges, she persevered with the unwavering support of her family and friends. Her message to fellow women in the industry is clear: continue to push forward and eventually you will witness the transformative change you’ve been working so hard for.
Poonam shares her advice, saying, "There were moments when I felt on the brink of giving up... but I can assure you that no effort is ever in vain. By persevering and staying true to your inner calling, success is inevitable. There's simply no other option".
Join us on March 26th for our Women+ in Travel: Learning from Women+ on the Ground virtual event to hear more from Poonam Rawat-Hahne and other inspiring speakers making a positive impact on travelers, local communities, and the travel industry through their meaningful work on the ground.