Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a Miyazaki planting activity at a farm near our school. This method, inspired by the renowned Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, focuses on creating dense, fast-growing forests with native plant species. This experience was not only rewarding but also a chance for me to reflect on my strengths, challenges, and commitment to sustainable actions.

LO1 – Identifying Strengths & Areas for Growth

At the start, I believed I had a basic understanding of planting techniques, but I quickly realized that Miyazaki planting required precision, teamwork, and patience. My strength was my enthusiasm for environmental conservation, but I needed to improve my knowledge of soil preparation and plant spacing. Through guidance from the farm instructors, I learned how to properly dig, plant, and nurture the seedlings to ensure their survival.

LO2 – Overcoming Challenges & Developing Skills

One of the biggest challenges was the physical effort required. The planting process involved digging in tough soil and ensuring the correct placement of each sapling, which was tiring but rewarding. I also had to learn about plant biodiversity and how different species support each other in this method. By the end of the activity, I had developed a better understanding of ecological balance and sustainability in afforestation efforts.

LO4 – Perseverance & Commitment

Despite the heat and exhaustion, I remained dedicated to completing the task alongside my peers. Planting a Miyazaki forest is a long-term commitment, and I felt a sense of responsibility in contributing to an initiative that would positively impact the environment for years to come. This experience reinforced my commitment to sustainability and conservation, motivating me to engage in more green initiatives in the future.

This CAS experience allowed me to grow in multiple ways—both personally and as a global citizen. I recognized my strengths, tackled challenges, and demonstrated perseverance in an activity that contributes to a greener planet. Moving forward, I hope to participate in more afforestation projects and encourage others to take small but impactful steps toward environmental sustainability.