ECORAH community member's story Ms. Errica W. D. Megam

Ms. Errica W.D. Megam, an entrepreneur from Assam, is the Founder of Silkmoth Trails and the President of the Self-Help Group (SHG) MeBa.

We are honoured to welcome incredible founders to ECORAH Community who are dedicated to nurturing rural and sustainable hospitality. We are committed to encouraging and promoting all of their efforts in their important endeavours.

In this blog post, I share my insightful conversation with Ms. Errica W. D. Megam, an entrepreneur from Assam and a ECORAH community member's story. She is dedicated to fostering community-oriented tourism to uplift the residents of her remote village located at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. After working as a school teacher in Bangalore, she returned to her hometown and realised the urgent need to improve living standards in her community.

Errica recognised the potential for rural tourism in the vicinity of Nameri National Park. She also identified an opportunity to engage the local community, generating employment and supporting small businesses through the promotion of local crafts, cuisine, and traditional performances.

By nurturing a sustainable tourism and community homestay model, she aimed to create a lively getaway that not only celebrated the area's natural beauty but also enhanced the well-being of its residents. In 2023, she and her associate organized a community festival named "Dwisa Grongani."

This event turned out to be a great success, inspiring the community to make it an annual tradition. The Dwisa Grongani event is scheduled to take place from November 7th to 9th, 2025.

In an extensive conversation with Ms. Errica W. D. Megam, she shared insights into her entrepreneurial journey.

Errica took the lead in guiding her village community towards new avenues of development by revitalizing traditional craftsmanship and introducing innovative tourism product designs.

Errica W D Megam from Assam, an entrepreneur and social worker born and raised in Shillong was a school teacher by profession staying in Bangalore. As she returned to her native place for good which is a remote village at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. She realized that the village had no electricity, no infrastructure, no education or medical facilities for children and old.

Her intention of helping the village community where she resides slowly curved her into an entrepreneur, she wanted to give the self skilled artisans an exposure of the outside world as their skills were dying with lack of support and hence began the work to get their products to the global market which was a very tedious process of patience and hardwork of last 7 years.

She and her associate together worked on using all the resources available to bring revenue and income to the village community with the idea that if the village folks were unable to go outside and sell their products, the world could come to their corridor.

Errica has many feathers in her cap, not only promoting products of her village but also started community homestay system in her village to raise the income of the village women. And in doing so, she had acquired a home stay compatibility training in IIE, Guwahati which was beneficial for her in getting the foundation stronger which now is in process to become a government supported cluster homestays in the village.

She and her associate also organized a community festival "Dwisa Grongani" in 2023 promoting their tradition and culture which not only promoted the skills and agro-products of the village but also gave the village community it's name in global platform; in doing so, she has become one of the entrepreneurs to be featured in many news forums with a chance to meet Madam, President of India where she was invited by NEHHDC to showcase the products of her village in Rashtrapati Bhavan in the "Vividhta Ka Amrit Mohotsav" 2024 held for the first time in Rashtrapati Bhavan, Delhi. She and her community festival has been featured in global RISE summit 2024 in Dubai where she spoke about her work. Again she was invited to Rashtrapati Nilayam in Hyderabad to promote her village community Festival and village products in September, 2024 in "Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav" in the residence of the President of India. She was invited to The Republic Day Parade of India on 26th January, 2025 by the Ministry Of Skill Development as one of the successful entrepreneur who has executed the reforms for rural tourism and initiated it in her village.

The Rongagora Development Initiative Trust, established by Errica and her team last year, focuses on developing the village and nearby communities. Its goals are to create sustainable, self-reliant communities with robust infrastructure, empower women and youth for inclusive growth, and preserve cultural heritage. The initiative supports eco-friendly agriculture, tourism, and environmental care while promoting sustainable innovations.

MeBa is running a village community model homestays and empowering many women through various initiatives that focus on skills development and entrepreneurship. By providing training in hospitality, local crafts, and sustainable agriculture, MeBa is helping women gain financial independence and confidence. The homestays not only offer an authentic cultural experience for visitors but also create a platform for women to showcase their talents and share their stories. This community-driven approach fosters a sense of unity and pride, while also contributing to the local economy and preserving traditional practices.

Guests have the opportunity to connect with the local community and discover untouched rural areas. They can experience staying at community-led homestays, explore traditional homes, witness authentic cooking techniques, observe weaving on looms, stroll through paddy fields, and enjoy the beauty of kitchen gardens. Additionally, guests can spend quality time immersed in nature.

MeBa community homestays not only provide a scope for rural tourism infrastructure but also invites guests with a warm welcome and hospitality. Visitors are greeted with open arms and genuine smiles, making them feel instantly at home. The homestays offer an authentic experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions. From savoring delicious homemade meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients to participating in traditional crafts and activities, every moment is an opportunity to connect with the community. The homestay's hosts are eager to share stories of their vibrant heritage, ensuring that every guest departs with fond memories and a deeper appreciation for the region's rich history and natural beauty.

The women of the Garo community are skilled weavers, creating intricate designs and wearing beautiful dresses adorned with handmade ornaments that beautifully complement their traditional attire. The vibrant colors and patterns of their clothing are a testament to their rich cultural heritage and artistic prowess. Each piece tells a story, often inspired by nature, folklore, or significant events in their community's history. The weaving process is a communal activity, bringing together generations of women who share techniques passed down through the ages.

In addition to their weaving skills, the Garo women are also known for their strong role in society.

Festivals and celebrations bring the community together, with music, dance, and storytelling enhancing the vibrant tapestry of Garo life. During these events, the women proudly display their handcrafted garments, each piece a work of art that reflects their identity and the enduring spirit of their people.

The community embraces global tourists, celebrating their cultures while sharing its unique traditions.

The annual festival features lively parades, dances, and local cuisine, with artisans displaying their crafts. This cultural exchange fosters understanding and enriches the community, leaving visitors with cherished memories and a greater appreciation for diverse human experiences.

Uttar Rongagora Garo Gaon, located in the Sonitpur District of Assam, is a serene forest village enveloped in lush greenery and a pristine environment, complemented by a friendly local community. It promises an unforgettable experience for those who venture into its tranquil surroundings.

Nestled amidst rolling hills and dense forests, the village teems with vibrant flora and the soothing sounds of nature.

This enchanting village offers a tranquil escape, serving as a reminder of the beauty and vitality that lie within the simplicity of rural life.

Eco-tourism has created numerous opportunities for promoting community-led initiatives in hospitality, crafts, and handloom.

It has flourished in this forest village near Nameri National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. This park has become a hub for travellers seeking authentic and sustainable experiences. Local communities have seized this chance, launching unique ventures that showcase their traditional skills and cultural heritage.

Artisans have begun producing exquisite handwoven textiles and intricate bamboo crafts, which are not only favored by tourists but also contribute to the preservation of age-old techniques passed down through generations. Homestays have emerged, giving visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in local hospitality while appreciating the area's natural beauty. These accommodations often utilize locally sourced materials and eco-friendly practices, minimizing their environmental impact.

Additionally, guided nature walks and bird-watching tours led by knowledgeable locals offer insights into the region's diverse wildlife and flora. These activities not only enrich the visitor experience but also educate guests on the significance of conservation and sustainable living.

Eco-tourism in this forest village has become a model for how tourism can serve as a catalyst for positive change, empowering communities while safeguarding the environment.

The homestay accommodations and the festival utilize locally sourced materials and eco-friendly practices, which greatly minimizes their environmental footprint.

Errica and her community are dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism, inviting visitors to explore the region's beauty while nurturing a profound respect for nature. They provide detailed orientations that educate guests about the unique ecosystems and local areas, inspiring them to appreciate and safeguard these natural wonders. Additionally, workshops on traditional crafts and renewable energy practices are offered, allowing travelers to engage meaningfully with the local culture.

By emphasizing sustainability, Errica and her community not only preserve their environment but also ensure that future generations can enjoy the same vibrant landscapes and rich traditions. Their commitment serves as an inspiring example of eco-conscious travel, demonstrating that tourism can be both enriching and responsible.

They prioritize using handmade bamboo items, utensils, and banana stems as serving plates, eliminating plastic from their events.

The host community showcases a diverse array of handmade cane and bamboo products, highlighting the remarkable craftsmanship and creativity of local artisans. From beautifully woven baskets to sophisticated furniture pieces, each item embodies a story of tradition and skill passed down through generations. Visitors can appreciate the intricate details and distinctive designs that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. These products not only enhance decor but also serve practical purposes, infusing any home with a sense of nature and sustainability.

Whether you seek a striking centerpiece or a subtle accent, this collection has something for everyone, making it an essential stop for those interested in artisanal crafts and sustainable living.

Such initiatives empower local communities by enhancing their earnings, stimulate local economies through tourism, create income opportunities, and contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.