As I sit down to reflect on the journey that has unfolded over the past six weeks, I'm struck by just how much we’ve all grown—not only as individuals but as a cohesive, determined team. What started as a daunting challenge has now crystallised into a rich tapestry of learning experiences, hard-won insights, and a reimagined perception of interpersonal relationships.

In the final stretch, the various threads of our project began to weave together, revealing the full picture of what we had been working toward. We took the foundation laid in coding, tech education, and 3D modelling, and set it into motion with the development of innovative prototypes. Each student took ownership of their project, drawing from the health education we provided and also their own passions and experiences to address unique challenges in health and fitness. This led to an inspiring array of concepts—from sleep quality monitors to pressure-sensing insoles designed to prevent injuries. It was a moment of true convergence, where all our teaching and their learning coalesced into tangible outcomes.

However, the path to these final prototypes was anything but smooth. It was a journey marked by countless obstacles that demanded creativity, resilience, and a good deal of improvisation. We faced setbacks with our 3D printing, with prints failing repeatedly or coming out in the wrong sizes. These failures, though frustrating, became opportunities to teach adaptability and problem-solving under pressure—skills that are crucial in any engineering endeavor. Instead of being discouraged, we pivoted, sourcing materials from places like Home Depot and Target, and using them to craft bespoke solutions that matched the students' original visions.

This final push was intense, culminating in a marathon 14-hour day of building, soldering, and refining. As we watched the students put the finishing touches on their prototypes, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride—not just in their technical accomplishments, but in their personal growth. They learned to communicate their ideas effectively, to collaborate under tight deadlines, and to persevere through setbacks. By the time we reached the final presentations, the students had transformed from hesitant beginners into confident, articulate innovators, each one eager to share their work with the world.

The farewell was bittersweet. Over these weeks, we had formed strong bonds with the students, seeing them evolve from reserved participants to bold creators. Each one found their voice, developed their unique strengths, and matured into someone ready to tackle the challenges of the modern tech landscape. As I think back on our time together, I realise that the lessons we learned extended far beyond the technical—this was a masterclass in leadership, empathy, and the power of perseverance.

Our conversations with Susanna Kemp near the end of our time underscored a key takeaway: leadership is not about authority, but about building trust and rapport. Positive reinforcement and understanding each individual’s needs were vital in helping our students reach their potential. This insight will stay with me as I continue to grow in my own career.

Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for this experience. The challenges we faced, the friendships we forged, and the knowledge we gained have all left an indelible mark. As I move forward, I carry with me the lessons learned—not just from the project itself, but from the remarkable people who shared this journey with me. The Laidlaw Leadership Program has been a transformative chapter in my life, one that I will cherish and draw strength from in the years to come.