The Garba Fest at my school was my chosen CAS project, where I served as a member of the Organising Committee (OC) and led the event management. This experience combined creativity, activity, and service into a single large-scale project that brought together over 500 students and staff. From planning logistics and managing volunteers to designing sustainable decor, my purpose was not only to create a vibrant and enjoyable event but also to make it environmentally conscious and inclusive. This project gave me the opportunity to apply my skills of leadership, collaboration, and creativity while promoting cultural celebration in a modern school environment.
LO3 – Initiate and plan a CAS experience
Taking the lead in Garba Fest required me to plan, coordinate, and execute the event from start to finish. I scheduled meetings with teachers, managed logistics, guided volunteers, and ensured timely communication with all stakeholders. The sustainable decor design, which used upcycled fabrics and reusable items, was an important initiative that required creativity and planning. Managing different teams and overseeing tasks made me more aware of how organization and proactive decision-making are key to running large-scale events smoothly.
LO4 – Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience
While organizing the fest, I encountered challenges such as delayed approvals, last-minute changes, and logistical difficulties. These required patience, resilience, and a commitment to the larger vision of making the event successful. I had to adapt quickly, motivate volunteers, and take responsibility for ensuring that everything was in place. The perseverance I showed in overcoming these hurdles not only helped execute the event successfully but also reinforced my ability to remain calm and determined under pressure.
LO5 – Demonstrate the skills and benefits of working collaboratively
Collaboration was central to the success of Garba Fest. As part of the Organising Committee, I worked closely with teachers, volunteers, and student teams to coordinate logistics, decor, and event management. Effective communication and teamwork helped us overcome challenges and meet deadlines efficiently. By sharing responsibilities and respecting each member’s ideas, we created a supportive environment that enhanced creativity and productivity. This experience taught me that collaboration not only improves results but also builds trust, unity, and a sense of collective achievement.
LO6 – Engagement with issues of global significance
Garba Fest was not only about entertainment but also about cultural preservation. Garba is a traditional Indian dance form that represents unity and celebration. By organizing this fest, I promoted the importance of sustaining cultural practices in today’s fast-paced, globalized world. Witnessing students from diverse backgrounds participate enthusiastically highlighted how cultural traditions can bridge gaps, promote inclusivity, and foster mutual respect across communities.
LO7 – Recognise and consider the ethics of choices and actions
Ethical decision-making was central to this CAS project, particularly in terms of sustainability. By choosing eco-friendly decor, such as embroidered waste cloth and reusable materials, I minimized resource waste and promoted environmentally responsible practices. This decision showed me how event management can have ethical implications, encouraging me to make thoughtful choices that balance aesthetics, culture, and sustainability. It also reinforced the importance of accountability in leadership roles.
Overall, Garba Fest was an enriching CAS experience that helped me develop as a leader, communicator, and problem solver. It strengthened my organizational and decision-making abilities while teaching me the value of resilience, cultural appreciation, and sustainable practices. The event was not just a school celebration but also a meaningful initiative that left a lasting impact on the community and me as an individual.
Through this experience, I developed the Communicator attribute by coordinating effectively with teachers, volunteers, and event teams to ensure smooth execution. I practiced being Balanced by managing my academic workload alongside the event responsibilities. Finally, I became more Caring by focusing on sustainability and making conscious choices to reduce waste, which reflected my commitment to both the environment and the school community.
