I am currently travelling which is why I couldn't add pictures to this report which is in my personal computer. I will do so as soon as I get back.

 

I first joined Tunza Eco-Gen about 2 years ago which has only resulted in me being a more observant person. Serving as a Regional Ambassador to UAE has not only helped me observe the advancements being introduced here but also has given me so many reasons to admire and learn from this country. 

How often do we see the depths of learnings bestowed upon mankind by nature?

?Come forth into the light of things, let Nature be your teacher.?                

This quote by Willian Wordsworth amplifies the abundance of knowledge and learning widespread in nature. All we need to do is pursue it.

My first report is exactly about those lessons and how I have tried to fulfill my role as an environmentalist.

1) My favourite thing to do when I visit India is to spend time with my differently-abled friends at a local school for differently- abled kids. We look for superheroes in movies and comics but I feel lucky to have known some of the real-life superheroes so closely. Last year, on one such trip, I decided to do something different. I decided to conduct a drawing competition with the theme, "What I Would Do To Protect Mother Nature." I was left spellbound at the amazing creations that had come to life on those drawing sheets. 

There was a four year- old friend of mine who had defect in vision and so I held her hand and drew as she instructed me to. Her idea of the environment was of one where the nasty stink of garbage wouldn't overpower the fragrance of their garden flowers. She wanted to help create "magic bins" where garbage would completely disappear! 

At the end the contest, we announced the winners according to the judges' verdict and the smile on each one's face filled me with absolute delight. We gave each one of the participants gifts such as colour pencils, paintbrushes, drawing books, pencils and erasers. I visited the art room in that school where kids had created handbands made out of scrap like bottle caps, cutouts from tags on clothes etc. These little children were so inspiring and this was one of the best experiences of my life. 

2) The simplest yet one of the most effective ways of playing a part in the conservation of our resources is to recycle. I began collecting and recycling newspaper, cans, plastic bottles since I was 9. My parents had instilled this quality in me at a young age because they felt that these actions would eventually turn into a habit. I actively take part in environmental campaigns and recycle on a regular basis. I collect recyclables from restaurants and my building and send e-mails to my friends and family to contribute.

I hope I have been able to bring about a change and aspire to keep doing what I love most and work towards a better tomorrow.