This past week was both eventful and enriching, with a series of activities that deepened my involvement with Killa and strengthened our community connections.

Monday began with an exciting opportunity to introduce the entire team of Laidlaw Scholars to Killa. We had the pleasure of explaining Killa’s mission, the significance of our sustainable practices, and the intricate process of dyeing fabrics using natural materials. To make the experience more interactive, we hosted a hands-on workshop where the scholars dyed their own fabrics using different plants and flowers. The workshop was a success, as it not only engaged the participants but also allowed us to showcase the cultural and environmental importance of our work. Managing such a large group presented its challenges, especially in ensuring that everyone had a fulfilling experience, but it was a valuable lesson in communication and group management.

Tuesday was dedicated to preparing for the Killa and Comunidad showcase event at the Selina Miraflores Hotel. This involved extensive coordination with artisans from both organizations to ensure their work was beautifully presented. We printed and distributed posters, flyers, stickers, and brochures throughout the tourist-heavy neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco, aiming to attract visitors with significant purchasing power. Additionally, we collaborated with influencers, sending them Killa products and inviting them to the fair to boost attendance and social media engagement. The preparation also included setting up the fair area, decorating it, organizing refreshments, and managing the budget. The most significant achievement of the day was securing a contract with Selina, ensuring that our artisans would have continued opportunities to showcase their work in future events. However, balancing the various tasks within a tight timeframe was a challenge that required meticulous planning and prioritization. Through this process, I honed my project management skills and gained insights into effective marketing strategies, particularly the impact of direct outreach and influencer collaboration.

Wednesday was the day of the much-anticipated fair. My primary role was to manage the event with my teammates, ensuring that everything ran smoothly for both the artisans and the attendees. I provided hands-on support to the artisans, helping them meet their sales targets, which included making over 20 sales and generating more than 1000 soles in revenue. One significant challenge we faced was that the fair was located inside the hotel, which limited our visibility and foot traffic from passersby. To address this, we devised a strategy to move some items outside the hotel after securing the necessary permits. By showcasing a glimpse of the fair on the street, we were able to attract more visitors and increase foot traffic. This adjustment proved successful, helping us exceed our sales targets and enhance the overall impact of the fair. After the event, we coordinated the cleanup, ensuring the venue was left in good condition. The fair was a resounding success, meeting and even exceeding our sales targets while fostering long-term customer relationships. The experience of managing the event in real-time, addressing any issues that arose, and balancing the needs of all parties involved was a significant learning opportunity. It improved my problem-solving skills and provided valuable experience in organizing community-centered events that promote sustainability and cultural heritage.

Thursday was focused on creative work for Killa’s upcoming September catalog. We visited Diana's workshop and conducted a photoshoot, where I was involved in setting up the products in aesthetically pleasing ways and even modeling some of the apparel. I also took on the task of writing detailed descriptions for each item and suggesting creative names. This was a rewarding experience as it allowed me to contribute to the creative process and produce high-quality visual content that aligns with Killa’s brand identity. The challenge lay in ensuring that the photos captured the essence of Killa’s products and its ties to nature while maintaining an aesthetic appeal. This experience refined my skills in visual storytelling and product presentation, both of which are crucial for effective marketing.

Finally, Friday was dedicated to supporting the Casa Ronald McDonald team during their showcase event, which welcomed new volunteers. I helped my peers by assisting them with tasks relating to setting up the party, decorating the space, and arranging refreshments. The event was lively, with activities such as karaoke, which contributed to a positive and welcoming atmosphere. This day highlighted the importance of team cohesion and community building. Balancing the responsibilities of this event with ongoing tasks at Killa required careful time management, but it was a fulfilling way to close out the week. It provided me with valuable experience in team working, event coordination and volunteer engagement, reinforcing the importance of fostering a sense of belonging among team members and volunteers.

Overall, this week was a blend of creative, managerial, and community-oriented tasks, each contributing to my growth and the ongoing success of the different organizations we are working with in Peru. The challenges I faced were opportunities for learning, and the achievements we accomplished as a team have set a positive tone for the upcoming final week.