Our Story

Nestled in the heart of the Nilgiri Hills, the Garden of Hope Trust (GoHT) stands tall, a testament to a year brimming with transformative journeys, community resilience, and the collaborative spirit of individuals committed to positive change. Rooted in the rich tapestry of history dating back to Vanya Orr’s legacy in 1824, the journey of GoHT has unfolded, shaped by the significant contributions of remarkable individuals like David Pople.

The tale begins in 1994 when Vanya Orr, at the age of 60, set foot in India with her 80-year-old mother, embarking on a mission to delve into the roots of her family’s ancestral home in the Nilgiris. This expedition marked the dawn of a vision that would later blossom into GoHT.

In the early years, Vanya immersed herself in the Dodabetta region, addressing conflicts between the Forest Department and those toiling on Government Cinchona Plantations. Establishing the Women’s Organisation for the Health Of People and the Environment in Nilgiris (H.O.P.E) in collaboration with the Forest Department and the Foundation for Revitalization of Local Health Traditions (FRLHT), Vanya laid the groundwork for sustainable practices.

One pivotal contributor during this time was David Pople, an accountant by profession who, along with his wife Patricia, spent nearly three months in India. Their 1995 visit became a spark, breathing life into Vanya’s holistic vision. In 1996, Friends of HOPE (FoH) emerged as a UK Charity, becoming a beacon of support for Vanya’s initiatives on the global stage.

The collaborative efforts of Vanya Orr, David Pople, and others culminated in the formal establishment of the Garden of Hope Trust in 2015, officially registered as a charitable trust. Since then, GoHT has flourished into an organization dedicated to impactful projects, including Climate Smart Resilient Farming (CSRF), Rejuvenation of Traditional Tribal Herbal Medicinal Practices (RTTHMP), and HIV Stigma Reduction.

The year 2023 witnessed unwavering dedication to the vision, with initiatives expanding into new territories. The diverse contributions of individuals like David Pople add layers to GoHT’s narrative, showcasing the potency of collective action and a shared commitment to the well-being of communities.

As we reflect on the past year, the Garden of Hope Trust emerges as a dynamic force, weaving together heritage, sustainability, and a profound connection to the Nilgiri Hills. The journey from Vanya’s roots to the present echoes the spirit of resilience, growth, and a shared vision for a brighter, more sustainable future – a vision deeply rooted in the ethos of India.