What went well?

The progress I made; what was achieved and done

During our project journey, we encountered several noteworthy achievements and successes that contributed to the overall progress and impact of our initiative. One particular milestone that stands out is the successful engagement of volunteers in Week 4.

In that week, we reached out to potential volunteers and were thrilled to have a total of 30 individuals express their interest in supporting our cause. To effectively communicate our vision and goals, we created informative leaflets explaining the concept of multilayer packages and outlining PROMESA's efforts in addressing this issue. These leaflets became valuable resources for our volunteers to distribute to coffee shops interested in joining our project.

To facilitate coordination and communication, we established a dedicated WhatsApp group chat for our volunteers. This platform proved to be an efficient and accessible means of exchanging information, addressing queries, and fostering a sense of community among the team.

We then conducted our first volunteer training session, and we were delighted to witness the active participation of six volunteers. This turnout exceeded our expectations, especially considering that another scholar team had only one volunteer attending their training. The enthusiastic response from our volunteers demonstrated their genuine interest in our project and their dedication to making a positive impact.

To ensure effective utilization of our volunteer resources, we divided the tasks among the team members. Each volunteer was assigned the responsibility of registering four coffee shops as long-term partners with PROMESA within the following 11 days. This systematic approach allowed us to maximize our outreach efforts and establish meaningful collaborations with local coffee shops.

What could have been done differently?

Things that did not get done and/or could be changed

As we reflect on our project journey, it is important to acknowledge areas where we could have taken a different approach to ensure better outcomes. One notable aspect that could have been handled differently relates to the design and distribution of our leaflets for coffee shops.

During the design process, we made a decision to use the term 'tetrapack' instead of 'multilayer packages' in order to make it easier for coffee shop owners to understand the concept. While this choice seemed reasonable at the time, it inadvertently led to an unforeseen issue.

In our enthusiasm to create the leaflets, we missed an essential step: seeking feedback and approval from the PROMESA staff. Unfortunately, this oversight resulted in unintended consequences. We distributed the leaflets to our volunteers, who then used them to recruit coffee shops into our program. It wasn't until the final week that we received feedback from the PROMESA staff.

They informed us that they had an ally who happened to have a competitor named 'Tetra Pack.' The use of the term 'tetrapack' in our leaflets, which were distributed as representatives of PROMESA, raised concerns that their competitor might become upset upon discovering this association. This situation inadvertently created a negative impact on PROMESA's reputation.

Looking back, we realize that involving the PROMESA staff in the review process for the leaflets would have been a crucial step. By seeking their input and expertise, we could have avoided any potential conflicts or misunderstandings. Their guidance would have provided valuable insights and helped us align our messaging with PROMESA's branding and priorities.

To prevent similar issues in the future, we have learned the importance of thorough review and collaboration with relevant stakeholders. It is essential to ensure that all materials accurately represent the organizations involved and align with their objectives.

While this oversight had unintended consequences, we are grateful for the opportunity to learn from this experience. It has reinforced the significance of effective communication and collaboration with project partners. By incorporating these lessons into our future endeavors, we can strive for even greater success and avoid potential pitfalls that may arise from misaligned messaging.

What did I learn about myself when working with others?

Contributions, behaviours and values I exhibited

Working with others on this project provided me with valuable insights into my own approach to collaboration and the importance of being more attentive and careful. One significant lesson I learned about myself was the need to exercise greater caution when cooperating with others.

The mistake we made in the leaflet design served as a wake-up call for me. Subconsciously, I had developed a belief that since our project was focused on public welfare and did not involve monetary transactions, small mistakes could be overlooked. This led me to overlook the need for thorough review and double-checking.

In hindsight, I realize that regardless of the nature of a project, attention to detail and careful consideration should always be a priority. Every aspect of our work, no matter how seemingly insignificant, has the potential to impact the overall success and reputation of the project.

This experience has taught me the importance of thinking twice and being more diligent in my work, especially when it involves collaboration with others. It is crucial to develop a habit of thoroughness, paying attention to the smallest details and seeking opportunities to double-check our work.

What did I learn about leadership?

Leadership attributes and insights I developed

This project taught me that leadership involves careful consideration anda holistic approach. The mistake with the leaflet design taught me the importance of considering the bigger picture and the perspectives of all stakeholders. Leaders should actively communicate and collaborate with team members and partners, anticipating challenges and considering long-term implications. By embracing this inclusive and proactive approach, leaders can make informed decisions that align with project goals and values.

What do I want to develop or focus on next?

What I still need to develop

I need to take personal responsibility and accountability for my actions. As a leader and team member, it is essential to recognize the impact that my individual contributions have on the collective effort. By being more mindful and meticulous in my work, I can contribute to a more cohesive and successful team dynamic.