Prof. Leela B
Founder Trustee – We Grow Forest Foundation
Chief Mentor – We Grow Forest Foundation Publications


Prof. Leela B is a distinguished academician, visionary environmentalist, and one of the most respected intellectual voices in the field of sustainable development and philosophical thought in India. With an illustrious career spanning over 34 years in higher education, she has served in various capacities across premier Government Colleges in Thiruvananthapuram and Palakkad, inspiring generations of students through her scholarship and leadership.

A former Principal of Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, and Government College, Attingal, Prof. Leela B has also served as a member of the Academic Council and Chief Superintendent of Examinations under the University of Kerala, playing a pivotal role in academic governance and institutional development until her retirement in 2002.

Prof. Leela B is the Founder Trustee of We Grow Forest Foundation, a leading environmental NGO based in Kerala, India, which is committed to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through grassroots urban forestry initiatives, ecological education, and ESG-based advocacy. As the Chief Mentor of We Grow Forest Foundation Publications, she leads the foundation’s thought leadership, guiding the development of insightful, research-based environmental literature and campaign materials that influence public and corporate discourse.

Known for her Gandhian values, profound philosophical insight, and deep interdisciplinary knowledge of both Indian and Western philosophies, Prof. Leela B brings a unique and integrative perspective to contemporary issues concerning sustainability, ethics, and environmental justice. Her life and work are dedicated to nurturing ecological consciousness and empowering communities to become agents of green transformation.

A true nature lover and change-maker, she currently spearheads multiple environmental and sustainability programs under the aegis of We Grow Forest Foundation, impacting urban and rural ecosystems alike. Her leadership continues to inspire a growing network of students, professionals, and environmental advocates in India and beyond.

Commitment to Social Causes Prof. Leela B’s lifelong dedication to social transformation extends well beyond her distinguished academic career. Deeply rooted in Gandhian principles and a profound love for nature, she has championed numerous initiatives that promote environmental stewardship, ethical leadership, and sustainable community development. Her ability to bridge Indian and Western philosophical traditions enables her to inspire diverse audiences with a message of harmony, resilience, and mindful living.

As the Founder Trustee and Chief Mentor of We Grow Forest Foundation, Prof. Leela B has been instrumental in mobilizing grassroots efforts that empower individuals and communities to embrace sustainable practices and foster ecological awareness. Through her visionary guidance, she has cultivated strong partnerships with educational institutions, environmental groups, and policy makers, advancing the foundation’s mission to create lasting positive impact.

Prof. Leela B’s unwavering commitment to social and environmental causes is reflected in her role as a change-maker and thought leader who nurtures the next generation of environmental advocates. Her blend of philosophical insight, academic rigor, and compassionate leadership continues to inspire transformative action and reinforces her legacy as a beacon of hope for a greener, more just world.

Key Roles Reflecting Expertise and Passion Throughout her distinguished career, Prof. Leela B has held a multitude of influential roles that underscore her profound expertise and unwavering passion for education, philosophy, and environmental sustainability. As the Founder Trustee of We Grow Forest Foundation, she has been the visionary guiding force behind the organization’s commitment to fostering ecological awareness and sustainable development across India.

Her extensive academic leadership includes her tenure as Principal of Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, and earlier as Principal at Government College, Attingal, where she championed academic excellence and progressive educational reforms. Prof. Leela also served as a member of the Academic Council and Chief Superintendent of Examinations at the University of Kerala, exemplifying her dedication to upholding the highest standards of academic governance until her retirement in 2002.

Prof. Leela’s contributions transcend administration and teaching; she is a philosopher deeply versed in both Indian and Western philosophical traditions, whose insights enrich her approach to environmental and social challenges. As Chief Mentor of We Grow Forest Foundation Publications, she shapes the foundation’s intellectual discourse, overseeing the production of research-driven publications that advocate for sustainability, ethical living, and social responsibility.

Advocate for Holistic Environmental Stewardship At the helm of numerous environmental and sustainability programs under We Grow Forest Foundation, Prof. Leela B is a tireless advocate for nature conservation, community empowerment, and ethical leadership. Her Gandhian values and holistic worldview inform her leadership style, fostering collaboration, innovation, and a deep respect for the interconnectedness of life.

Prof. Leela’s remarkable ability to integrate academic scholarship with grassroots activism makes her an indispensable leader in the movement towards a greener and more equitable future. Her visionary guidance continues to inspire educators, activists, and policymakers alike, reinforcing the foundation’s mission to create lasting environmental impact through knowledge, compassion, and action.

Recognition and Honours

Prof. Leela B’s lifelong dedication to academia, philosophy, and environmental stewardship has earned her widespread recognition and numerous prestigious honours. Her visionary leadership in education and sustainability has been celebrated with several distinguished awards, reflecting her profound impact on both the academic community and environmental conservation efforts.

She has been honoured with the Excellence in Academic Leadership Award for her transformative contributions to higher education and institutional governance. Recognized as a Pioneer in Environmental Education, Prof. Leela’s efforts to integrate philosophical perspectives with ecological advocacy have been widely acclaimed.

Her commitment to Gandhian values and ethical leadership has also garnered the Social Change Leadership Award, recognizing her role as a catalyst for community empowerment and sustainable development. Additionally, she has received accolades for her scholarly contributions, including the Philosophy and Sustainability Fellowship, awarded for advancing interdisciplinary research bridging philosophy and environmental ethics.

These recognitions stand as a testament to Prof. Leela B’s enduring influence as a mentor, thinker, and changemaker, inspiring generations to engage deeply with the ethical dimensions of sustainability and social responsibility.