Saras Kumar Manager - Operations

Building Global Connections for Stronger Conservation Outcomes

Earlier this year, I had the privilege of attending the Conservation Coaches Network (CCNet) and Conservation Measures Partnership (CMP) biennial Rally, this year held in Valdivia, Chile.

The gathering brought together conservation coaches from across the world – including Colombia, Guatemala, Malaysia, Mongolia, the United States and beyond – to share knowledge, build tools, and strengthen our collective capacity to support inclusive, effective conservation. While I had collaborated with many of these colleagues virtually, it was fabulous to meet face-to-face and co-facilitate sessions that explored practical approaches to equity, Indigenous leadership, and long-term impact.

180 participants from 36 countries and 60 organisations gathered in March at the CCNet & CMP Rally 2025 in Valdivia, Chile. Photo by Justin Grubb (CMP).

A key focus of the rally was advancing Indigenous-led conservation, recognising that Indigenous peoples are the original conservationists. 

Healthy Country Planning training participants visited a Ruka Mapuche—a traditional cultural house—where they listened to the wisdom and stories of local knowledge holders. Photo by Valentina Varón.

Another highlight was the opportunity to co-deliver a Healthy Country Planning training course to 24 people, attending from 10 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Guatemala, Mexico, Palau, Peru, and the United States).

Hosted by The Nature Conservancy the training emphasised the fundamentals of Indigenous engagement, recognising and valuing the living and continuing culture of First Nations peoples, including their diverse languages, customs, traditions, knowledge, and systems. The central pillars of this work were identified as:  

• Community Values at the Core: Conservation strategies must align with the values and priorities of local communities to ensure long-term impact.
• Cosmovision as a Guiding Principle: Acknowledging Indigenous worldviews is essential for effective and respectful planning.
• Elders and Knowledge Holders at the Centre: Elders play a key role in guiding discussions, grounding the work in cultural and spiritual wisdom.

We heard directly from Mapuche leaders who shared their experiences managing their lands in partnership with The Nature Conservancy and government agencies. Being welcomed into their ruka (gathering place) and hearing what matters most to the Mapuche people reinforced the importance of culturally grounded, community-driven approaches.

Participants highly appreciated the integration of fieldwork, case studies, and interactive exercises. One powerful reflection captured the spirit of the training: “When Indigenous Peoples and local communities have a strong voice, real choices, and the power to act, they are the best stewards of their lands and waters.”

Thank you to Valentina Varón (independent consultant) who co-facilitated the training and for her contribution to this story.

Healthy Country Planning training participants at the Valdivian Coastal Reserve in March 2025. Photo by TNC Chile.