Coexistence is a unique initiative that challenges the conventional conservation model of isolating wildlife in distant protected areas. Instead, it promotes the idea of living harmoniously with nature and wildlife within shared spaces. Formed by a diverse consortium of ecologists, anthropologists, geographers, and conservationists, the organisation brings together extensive expertise in human-wildlife coexistence. Their mission is to reimagine conservation by supporting practical, community-driven solutions that recognise the interconnectedness of human and natural systems. Through collaborations across the globe, Coexistence seeks to understand and strengthen practices that enable humans and wildlife to thrive together. The focus is on empowering communities such as forest dwellers, pastoralists, fishers, and farmers who have lived alongside wild animals for generations, adapting to challenges through empathy, resilience, and respect. By amplifying these lived experiences, Coexistence aims to influence future conservation approaches rooted in justice, equity, and mutual respect between species. The organisation invests in individuals and initiatives that embody these principles, fostering networks, knowledge sharing, and advocacy to inspire a broader paradigm shift in conservation thinking and practice.

The Coexistence Champions Programme is designed to support mid-career conservationists leading initiatives that reflect lived experiences of human-wildlife coexistence. The programme provides funding, capacity building, and networking opportunities to amplify the voices and impact of practitioners who are already driving meaningful change. With an initial two-year funding commitment—extendable up to five years based on performance—the programme enables Champions to strengthen community-led conservation models grounded in local knowledge systems, science, and shared governance. Selected participants receive up to ₹30 lakhs annually to implement context-specific projects and influence conservation narratives. The programme begins with a 10-day in-person induction focused on frameworks, law and policy, privilege, storytelling, and building collaborative networks. A strong emphasis is placed on communication and outreach to reshape mainstream perceptions of human-wildlife relationships. Champions are encouraged to work closely with local governance structures, foster accountability, and ensure joint ownership of conservation outcomes. The aim is not to impose top-down mandates, but to empower individuals to lead change from within their communities. This is a partnership with those already practicing coexistence, providing the resources and platform to expand their impact while contributing to a broader shift in conservation thinking.