Varda Mehrotra is a systems thinker and movement builder working to transform food systems and reimagine human-animal relationships. With two decades of experience spanning grassroots mobilization, policy engagement, and advocacy, she has led efforts to shift food and farming systems toward more ethical, sustainable, and just alternatives.

She is the Co-Founder of A Just World, where she focuses on systemic advocacy and cross-sector collaboration to integrate plant-based transitions within broader social and environmental movements. She also serves as Co-Founder and Strategic Advisor at Samayu, working on government collaborations, farmer engagement, and public advocacy to ensure that food, health, and environmental policies reflect the need for a more just relationship with animals. Previously, as Executive Director of FIAPO, she played a key role in shaping India’s farmed animal advocacy landscape.

Beyond these leadership roles, Varda contributes to global movement-building as a Board Member of Animal Alliance Asia and Lily’s Voice, a Founding Board Member of Thrive Philanthropy, and an Advisor to Remaking One Health: Indies.

A long-time vegan and advocate for systemic change, Varda is committed to advancing solutions that move beyond industrial animal agriculture, fostering food systems that are resilient, equitable, and rooted in justice for animals, people, and the planet.