Over the past two years of my DP journey, the CAS program has provided an exciting, self-encompassing self-awareness, and collaborative experience. By reflecting to my first CAS goals I can determine my growth and what I have learned through the IB learning outcomes.

LO 1: Identifying Strengths + Develop Areas for personal growth. LO 2: Demonstrating undertaking challenges, and Developing new skills in the process. 

My goal for this year was the be the best version of myself physically, and I had set myself goals in the gym to reach for 3 different compound exercises; squat, deadlift, and benchpress. As I aimed to try to be the best version of myself physically I did continue to work towards these goals for the most part. Although I did not maintain my consistency in the gym this year due to other factors, I was still able to go to the gym here and there. My goals; Squat – 125kg, Deadlift – 175kg, Bench – 105kg, however, were not hit by any means whatsoever. I believe I am currently weaker than when I was writing my previous CAS goals, however, strength does not always measure success in the gym and my goal was to be the best version of myself physically and not to be extremely strong. In hindsight, I realize I could have balanced work and the gym better to develop a more consistent routine. Due to the heavy workload of DP 2 a more organized schedule and efficient study habits would have been beneficial to have in place to continue a consistent gym routine to hit my goals. However, I did achieve my goal of doing 2 or more SAISAs as I participated in 3. Due to the 3 seasons of sports, the dedication to each sport takes away from the motivation and energy to go to the gym. Some strengths I have developed during this year are how to reflect on what I need to improve on, and being able to make changes to my areas of improvement. Also, my dedication to my passions is a strong strength for me. One area for personal growth is hopefully to have an increased motivation to be organized and efficient, where I can balance my passion for sports with education.

LO 4: Working Collaboratively with Others

Co-leading the Gecko Inc. service group was one of the highlights of my CAS experience. Collaborating with team members to teach basic swimming skills to underprivileged children required effective communication and teamwork. Organizing events, planning swim sessions, and communicating with a language barrier also contributed to working collaboratively with others. Furthermore, throughout this year, competing in 3 different SAISA competitions, and as a captain for all three (football, basketball, volleyball) I needed to create an environment where everyone could work collaboratively. Collaborating with others is crucial to fostering a cohesive and motivated team. A captain must understand the strengths and weaknesses of each team member, leveraging individual talents while addressing areas for improvement. Creating an environment of mutual respect and trust encourages players to share ideas and feedback, which can lead to innovative strategies and enhanced performance; (1st place SAISA Volleyball). Although I was a good captain, sometimes the outcome of our teams was disappointing in other seasons like 9th place in SAISA Football and 6th Place SAISA Basketball. However, this helped me reflect on these tournaments as challenges, and opportunities as a captain where I can grow, to improve the team.

LO 6: Engagement with global issues and LO 4: Commitment + Perseverance in CAS

Organizing the swim-a-thon fundraiser for Save the Children as my CAS project was a major effort focused on addressing the critical needs of children affected by the crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of global solidarity. Together with Akash, we planned and carried out the event, managing all logistics and motivating participants to swim and donate. The successful participation of 33 swimmers and the significant amount raised (over $1,500 USD) showcased our ability to rally our community for an international cause, highlighting the power of collective action in tackling global challenges. Our commitment and perseverance to the CAS program were also tested as this event took important time to plan, during our exam period. By planning such a successful event during a rigorous time educationally it proves our commitment to our service and CAS project as well as CAS as a whole.

LO 7: Recognize and Consider the Ethics of Choices and Actions
Acknowledging the ethical implications of our actions was essential during activities like removing invasive species from the Talangama Wetlands as an additional part of our group 4 science project. Grasping the environmental impact and acting responsibly underscored the importance of ethical considerations in our decisions, particularly concerning the well-being of the invasive species and the morality of removing them from the lake.

Closing Statement

Overall the CAS experience has been an important and enriching experience for me. It has taught me many valuable lessons, and it has developed me into a more collaborative, open-minded, and dedicated person. It has allowed me to understand the importance of being collaborative, and open-minded, as well as perspective-taking.