Nandini Velho

A scientist, field biologist, and conservationist, Nandini works at the intersections of the biophysical (the natural world), the social (human capabilities), and the cultural (society, community, and governance). Her research and practice center on fostering meaningful engagement between people and nature to strengthen both ecological health and community well-being.

Over the years, she has collaborated with artists, storytellers, illustrators, local historians, and community members to help local communities reclaim their forests in new ways and build deeper relationships with nature. At the Canopy Collective, she is creating an inclusive space for storytelling on conservation in India — a platform for collaboration, partnership, and design between scientists, young filmmakers from grassroots communities, and local forest managers.