As part of my CAS experience, I had the privilege of participating in the Bal Mela, an event aimed at providing recreational opportunities for underprivileged children. My role was to help introduce and teach children to kick a ball, where I guided many children who had little or no experience with the sport. It was an eye-opening and rewarding experience that allowed me to connect with the community and make a difference in these children’s lives.

The day was filled with laughter, teamwork, and enthusiasm. For many of the kids, football was a new concept, and seeing their excitement as they learned the rules and played with others was truly heartwarming. I realized how powerful sports can be in bridging gaps and creating moments of joy, regardless of one’s background.

Reflecting on this experience, I believe it connects strongly with several CAS learning outcomes:

Lo5: Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively
Football is a team sport, and working together is essential for success. Throughout the day, I had the chance to collaborate with fellow volunteers and the children. I was able to encourage teamwork and communication, which helped them not only learn the game but also develop a sense of unity. Through this experience, I saw firsthand how working collaboratively can make the experience more enjoyable and impactful.

Lo4: Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences
Organizing and managing a group of excited children took effort, patience, and perseverance. It wasn’t always easy to keep the group engaged and focused, but I remained committed to the goal of providing these children with a positive experience. By staying consistent and enthusiastic, I was able to contribute meaningfully to the event and ensure that the children had a fun and fulfilling day.

 Lo6: Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance:
In the Bal mela, I was honoured to help underprivileged children in learning football. The global issue of poverty is prevalent, and it is crucial for us to help them out. This event provided an opportunity for me to help these children, and step out of my comfort zone. Thereby, proving to be a valuable experience for me. 

 Lo7: Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions
One of the most significant aspects of the Bal Mela was ensuring that the activities were inclusive and ethical. It was essential to make sure that every child felt welcomed and valued, regardless of their background. I consider how my actions and interactions could contribute to the children’s self-esteem and ensure they had equal opportunities to participate and enjoy the activities. This experience taught me how important it is to approach service work with sensitivity and thoughtfulness, considering the needs and experiences of others.

The Bal Mela not only helped me develop a sense of empathy and social responsibility, but it also provided an opportunity for personal growth and reflection. I look forward to continuing to engage in service experiences that promote inclusivity and positive change.