180 participants from 36 countries and 60 organizations gathered in March at the CCNet & CMP Rally 2025 in Valdivia, Chile. Photo by: Justin Grubb | CMP
A Global Gathering for Conservation in Valdivia
In the early part of March 2025, the small city of Valdivia, Chile, became a vibrant hub for conservation action. Nestled in the lush landscapes of southern Chile, Valdivia welcomed nearly 180 conservation leaders – who came together for a powerful purpose: to protect the planet.
This was the first-ever joint Rally of the Conservation Coaches Network (CCNet) and the Conservation Measures Partnership (CMP). Over the course of five inspiring days, participants representing around 60 organizations from 36 countries engaged in 25 interactive sessions, including three energizing plenaries and a bustling innovations and tools “marketplace” featuring 18 booths that participants could visit and learn about each other’s work.
The theme, “Harnessing Synergies for Inclusive Conservation at Scale,” set the tone for deep collaboration and innovative thinking. From breakout sessions on the Conservation Standards to workshops on Indigenous-led planning and protected area management, the Rally offered practical tools and meaningful dialogue.
Beyond the packed agenda, even greater impact came from the connections. Conservationists from different walks of life across the globe including biologists, community leaders, policy advisors, ecologists, Indigenous knowledge holders, nonprofit leaders, and many more – shared lessons, built new partnerships, and strengthened the commitment to inclusive, impactful conservation.
Hosting the Rally in Latin America was no coincidence. It was a celebration of the region’s rich biodiversity and an acknowledgment of its growing leadership in global conservation efforts. Participants were able to explore wondrous landscapes of Valdivia, including its rivers, wetlands, and rugged mountain forests, connecting with the landscape and one another. Many conservationists marveled at the sea lions gathered just outside the conference hotel, and a few even caught a glimpse of the lunar eclipse in the early morning.
Events like the CCNet & CMP Rally are more than conferences – they are catalysts. Most of the program’s content is offered by peers, for peers. After a week of collective learning and action, participants left Valdivia energized and equipped to make a bigger difference. Their work will ripple outward and help address some of the planet’s most urgent environmental challenges. Participants walked away inspired and wondering, when can we do this again?
The final resources from the recent CCNet & CMP Rally in Valdivia, Chile are now available.
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CCNet & CMP Rally Fast Facts
Strong global participation was made possible by generous user donations, which helped attendees join the rally.
