This year, in our school I participated in an incredible event called Bal Mela, where we had the opportunity to teach arts and crafts to underprivileged children. The goal wasn’t just to complete a CAS experience but to share a fun experience also spark creativity and confidence in these kids—giving them a platform to express themselves in ways they may not get to do often.

LO5: Demonstrate skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

At first glance, teaching arts and crafts may sound simple, but managing a group of energetic kids while trying to make sure everyone’s having fun was a different story. I was paired with a group of my classmates, and we each took charge of different activities. I worked on the painting station while my friends handled clay modeling and origami. There were moments when things got chaotic , but we supported each other and improvised when needed. Working collaboratively not only made the event run smoothly but also taught me valuable skills in leadership, adaptability, and cooperation. When one of us got overwhelmed, the others stepped in to help. It was a true team effort.

LO7: Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

Beyond the arts and crafts, Bal Mela wasn’t just about having fun; it was a day that forced us to consider the ethics behind our choices and actions. We weren’t just teaching these kids how to draw or fold paper—we were representing our school, and more importantly, creating a space where these children could feel valued and heard. we were very aware of the privilege gap between us and the children we were working with. While we were there to teach them skills, we had to approach it with humility and respect. It wasn’t about making ourselves feel like heroes for a day, but about genuinely empowering the kids to express themselves. We had to make sure that no child felt left out or overwhelmed, which meant being patient, listening to their needs, and offering support where it was needed.