What went well?

This week I wanted to start the processing of the drone images to generate the map of the farm. However, I noticed that I had made a big mistake: I did not account for the elevation differences across the farm. Therefore, I had to repeat all the imaging. To account for elevation, I had to generate a map with an elevation model to define zones across the farm with different altitudes. Having done so, I did my imaging and just finished today (Friday). On Wednesday I did a test of image processing with the images I had until that point, and I was very pleased with the results. Nonetheless, I also realized the long processing time needed. So now that I’m finished, as I write this my computer is doing processing that hopefully will be done by tomorrow.

In addition to my project I kept involving myself in other activities to support staff. I learned about cocoa bean selection for exports, and I participated in the building of a kitchen garden for the local community to have access to fresh, organic produce.

What could have been done differently?

It took some time for me to decide to do the imaging again. I was trying to fix it through software, even though I knew this wouldn’t be a great solution. I should have been more flexible; I should have acknowledged earlier that I made a mistake and I had to start over. That would have saved me some valuable time.

What did I learn about myself when working with others?

I learned that I am a good listener and I am very approachable. During the week I got to talk more with staff and locals and even though I come from a different background, it is easy for me to connect with them. This is not only personally fulfilling but also facilitates asking for help or collaborating in tasks.

What did I learn about leadership?

I learned about resilience and perseverance. I was nervous about having to repeat the imaging because of time constraints, but I decided to go for it and learn from my mistakes. Of course, I was much more efficient this time and the imaging went very well. Therefore, faced with a mistake, what a leader must do is not dwell on the error but focus on the solution.

What do I want to develop or focus on next?

Next week I aim to develop the map and integrate the farm’s information in it, so that in the last week I can train staff in its usage and make necessary adjustments. This entails going to the field to understand and mark the different features, so that hopefully all trees and plots are georeferenced. After doing this, I can proceed with the development of a Field Maps App for reporting.