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 operations. This experience integrated creativity, activity, and service into a single large-scale initiative that brought together over 500 students and staff. From planning logistics and coordinating volunteers to designing sustainable décor, my aim was not only to create a vibrant and enjoyable celebration but also to make it inclusive and environmentally responsible. The project allowed me to apply and strengthen my leadership, collaboration, and creative skills while promoting cultural appreciation in a modern school environment.

LO1 – Identify strengths and develop areas for growth

At the beginning of the project, I identified that I was strong in communication and creative planning, which helped me guide teams and brainstorm innovative décor setups. However, I recognized that I needed to improve my time-management and delegation skills, especially when overseeing multiple teams simultaneously. By reflecting on my role, I learned how to divide responsibilities more effectively and manage tasks without becoming overwhelmed. This helped me grow as a more balanced and efficient leader.

LO2 – Demonstrate challenges undertaken and skills develope

Organizing Garba Fest came with various challenges such as managing tight deadlines, coordinating with teachers for approvals, and balancing schoolwork with event responsibilities. Facing these obstacles helped me develop practical skills like conflict resolution, quick decision-making, and logistical planning. Learning to stay adaptable, especially when last-minute changes occurred, strengthened my confidence and ability to handle complex situations in real time.

LO3 – Initiate and plan a CAS experience

Leading the planning of Garba Fest required me to coordinate the event from start to finish. I scheduled meetings with teachers, prepared logistics plans, guided volunteers, and ensured smooth communication among all stakeholders. Designing sustainable décor using upcycled fabrics and reusable materials was a key creative initiative that required foresight and planning. Overseeing various teams made me realize the importance of structured organization and proactive decision-making in successfully executing large-scale events.

LO4 – Show perseverance and commitment in a CAS experience

Throughout the preparation, I faced challenges such as delayed permissions, sudden logistical issues, and unexpected changes in the event schedule. These difficulties required patience, dedication, and consistent effort. I remained committed despite the pressure, motivated volunteers, and adapted to shifting circumstances while ensuring that the final event ran successfully. This perseverance reinforced my ability to stay calm, focused, and responsible even under stress.

LO5 – Demonstrate the skills and benefits of working collaboratively

Collaboration formed the backbone of the project’s success. As part of the OC, I worked with teachers, volunteers, décor teams, and performers to coordinate all aspects of the fest. Open communication, shared responsibilities, and respect for diverse opinions helped us meet deadlines efficiently. Through this experience, I learned that effective teamwork enhances creativity and productivity while building trust and unity within a community.

LO6 – Engagement with issues of global significance

The Garba Fest went beyond entertainment by celebrating and preserving cultural heritage. Garba, a traditional Indian dance form, symbolizes community, joy, and unity. By organizing this event, I contributed to sustaining cultural traditions in a rapidly globalizing world. Seeing students from diverse backgrounds come together reinforced how cultural celebrations can build inclusivity, mutual respect, and global-mindedness.

LO7 – Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

Ethical decision-making was a key component of the project, especially regarding sustainability. Choosing eco-friendly décor—using embroidered waste cloth, recycled materials, and reusable items—helped reduce resource waste. This taught me how ethical choices in event management can positively impact the environment and community. It also strengthened my sense of responsibility as a leader committed to meaningful and sustainable practices.

Learner Profile Attributes Developed

Through the Garba Fest, I grew as a Communicator by coordinating effectively with teachers, volunteers, and student teams. I became more Balanced as I learned to manage my academic workload alongside event responsibilities. My focus on eco-friendly choices helped me become more Caring, demonstrating concern for both the environment and the school community. I also strengthened my identity as a Thinker, solving logistical problems creatively, and as a Principled leader, upholding ethical decision-making throughout the project.

Overall, Garba Fest was an enriching CAS experience that enabled me to develop as a leader, collaborator, and problem solver. It strengthened my organizational, interpersonal, and decision-making abilities while teaching me the value of resilience, cultural appreciation, and sustainable action. The event became more than a school celebration—it became a meaningful initiative that created a lasting impact on both the community and my own personal growth.