Experience Overview

Bal Mela was an event that was conducted for poor children from government schools, where they were given an interactive learning and entertainment day. There were different activities that were planned to get them involved in creative, physical, and mental growth. I was also a part of it by conducting origami classes, where children learned patience, imagination, and fine motor skills.

Learning Outcomes
LO 5: Demonstrate ability and benefits of collaborative working

Origami instruction required good communication and teamwork. Since the children were beginners in the art, I took them aside and broke up complicated steps into easy steps. I also coordinated with other volunteers to ensure that all the children were engaged and helped. I learned in this that collaboration increases learning and has a greater impact.

LO 6: Interaction with issues of global importance

Bal Mela reflected the education disparity among the underprivileged children. Most of them do not have extracurricular activities that refine their creativity and problem-solving skill. From the interaction with them, I realized how essential inclusive education and creative activities are for holistic development. It reinforced my commitment to ensuring equal access to education for all children, independent of their background.

LO 7: Recognize and consider the ethics of actions and decisions

This experience sensitized me to my social responsibility. The smile and inquisitiveness of the children made me realize how small things can change lives in a big way. I realized that being involved in such activities is not only about teaching but also about knowing, connecting, and making sure that activities are carried out respectfully and inclusively.

Personal Reflection

Bal Mela was a richly fulfilling experience that instilled in me patience, leadership, and respect for educational inequality. Origami was not just a game, but a means of building confidence, creativity, and excitement in the children. Bal Mela reaffirmed my belief in education and volunteering as instruments of social change and left me with a desire to seek additional ways to positively make a difference.