Dr. Sweedle Cerejo-Shivkar is a distinguished botanist, nature educator, and author with deep expertise in plant taxonomy, ecology, and the family Orchidaceae. With over 15 years of experience in botanical research and education, she has dedicated her career to studying the flora of western India.
She holds a Ph.D. in Taxonomy and Ecology of Orchidaceae from the University of Mumbai. Her research has significantly contributed to the understanding of regional orchid diversity, ecology, and distribution.
In addition to her research, she is a passionate nature educator, conducting workshops, lectures, and botanical trails on topics such as plant morphology, mangroves, wild foods, and orchids for NGOs, schools, and colleges across Mumbai. Also, she has worked as faculty and resource person at the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS)
Her exceptional understanding of plant identification, morphology and field ecology makes her an ideal mentor for this workshop. We are honored to have Dr. Sweedle Cerejo-Shivkar where participants will gain insights into the fascinating world of orchids and learn essential field skills for identifying and studying plant species in their natural habitats.

Her Key Achievements:

• Author of scientific papers and books on orchid ecology, wild foods and native flora.

• Author of “Wild Forgotten Foods”, “Millets for Children”, and “Cassia fistula: The Indian Laburnum.”

• Consultant botanist for Save Rani Bagh Botanical Garden Foundation, Mumbai.

• Managing Committee Member of the National Society of the Friends of the Trees.