CCNet is the network of coaches that use Conservation Standards at the global level. In Europe, coaches of this network gathered at the CCNet European Rally in May 2024. A group of 42 coaches from 15 countries across Europe gathered in beautiful Mount Medvednica Nature Park, Croatia, for mutual learning and shared fun. Nature Returns’ team includes three coaches who attended this Rally and presented the project to the whole audience.
Rally participants attended various sessions on the Conservation Standards and recent developments.

Participants reported that the sessions were highly relevant, informative, and applicable with a good balance between theory and practice. During the sessions, participants shared innovations and lessons learned, worked in teams to practice skills, and deepened their knowledge on key topics such as how to integrate climate-smart conservation practice into projects, using evidence-based learning to improve conservation, scaling projects for achieving a bigger impact, and practical tools we can use to pause and reflect and take a team full cycle.

During the Rally, new coaches were welcomed just after finishing their new coach training. They connected with each other, heard inspiring stories, shared delicious food during the “International Buffet,” and even went on a treasure hunt! It was a fantastic event to celebrate our network and community. Participants appreciated meeting and connecting with a diverse group of knowledgeable coaches with so many different experiences. Many described it as meeting (old and new) friends and feeling like a family.