It’s hard to believe that only a week ago I was getting on not one, but two planes to fly to India. Flying has always been something I’ve struggled with, so starting the programme by facing one of my biggest fears felt like an achievement before we’d even arrived. Looking back now, I think it set the tone for the rest of the week - saying yes to things that make me uncomfortable because that’s where the biggest growth comes from!

This week I took on the role as the first group leader. It was definitely daunting, especially as it was the first week and I wanted to set a good example. Organising the group, keeping everyone updated and helping things run smoothly pushed me outside my comfort zone, but it has already made me feel more confident in my leadership.

One of the most memorable parts of the week was visiting Save the Loom in Fort Kochi. Ramesh shared both the history of craft in Kerala and the story behind his company. What stood out to me most wasn’t the business itself, but the way he approaches it. He has consciously chosen not to endlessly expand because he doesn’t want to lose the meaning behind his work. In a world where success is often measured by growth and profit, I found his selflessness and genuine satisfaction with what he has built incredibly inspiring.

The cultural differences have definitely been a shock at times, but I already feel surprisingly at home here. Everyone has been so welcoming, especially Asha, Durga and the other scholars, and having such supportive people around me has made settling into life on the other side of the world much easier.

Another experience that really stayed with me was visiting a village in the backwaters, where a local woman showed us just how many uses the coconut tree has. From roofing and rope to washing-up sponges and shower loofahs, almost every part of the tree had a purpose. It made me question why, in so many places, we continue to manufacture more and more plastic products when natural alternatives already exist. I’ve always felt drawn towards living more sustainably, but in the Western world it often feels unrealistic given how deep of a hole we’ve dug with regards to consumerism. Seeing a community where this way of living is simply normal was incredibly inspiring, and I felt a real connection to the people because their values aligned so closely with my own.

We’ve also completed a range of workshops this week, with some centred around business - something I would never normally choose to learn about as a geology student. They’ve been surprisingly insightful and have given me knowledge and confidence that I know will help when we begin working with the companies. Taking part in the Take the Mic public speaking workshop was another challenge. Speaking in front of a room full of people isn’t something I naturally enjoy, but seeing everyone else push themselves encouraged me to do the same. When preparing my speech, I realised that this experience isn’t about deciding what success should look like for the women we work with, but about supporting them in achieving whatever they want for themselves. It was a valuable reminder that good leadership starts with listening and, although public speaking was daunting, I’m glad I challenged myself as I know it will help me communicate more confidently throughout the project.

Overall, this first week has been full of challenges, new perspectives and experiences that have pushed me far outside my comfort zone. I already feel more confident and self-assured than I did when I stepped onto that first plane, and I’m excited to see what the rest of the programme has in store!