Deep in Northeast India’s lush landscapes, the Canopy Collective flourishes under the leadership of Dr. Nandini Velho. Her work bridges wildlife research, community collaborations, and creative storytelling to drive tangible conservation outcomes. Through her decade-long commitment at the Pakke Tiger Reserve and Eaglenest Sanctuary, Dr. Velho has masterfully convened a rich tapestry of stakeholders—ranging from forest personnel, indigenous communities, to researchers and filmmakers. The fruits of their collaboration include the establishment of three nature interpretation centres, innovative educational tools such as forest songs and virtual reality videos, and the remarkable creation of a community reserve, sheltering the critically endangered Bugun Liocichla. The Singchung Bugun Village Community Reserve stands as a testament to the synergy of the collective, showcasing a village youth-led forest patrolling team and sustainable livelihood initiatives. Furthermore, the Collective’s digital and physical spaces echo the vibrant ethos of the Northeast, emphasizing a holistic understanding of the intertwining of nature and culture. Their commitment to fostering a deep-rooted community bond is evident in their approach to membership, ensuring an intimate alignment of core values. Projects like the Eaglenest Memory Project spotlight the emotional narratives of the region, while their culturally-relevant nature education programs strive to bridge communities and their environment through a lens of respect, appreciation, and empowerment.