Can’t believe it’s already been a month since we started.
Our introduction to the INSPIRE Program was filled with anticipation and curiosity, fueled by the opportunity to work on meaningful projects and grow together as a team. The journey began with personalized touches, like receiving customized cups, which, though simple, symbolized the unity we were about to forge. The introductory session laid the foundation, easing initial nervousness and setting the tone for what was to come. Listening to the inspiring stories of past Apprentice Garage participants, we couldn’t help but feel excited and motivated. They were like a sneak peek into what we all would become by the end of the program. Bonding as a team became effortless through a mix of activities that added both fun and depth. Sharing homemade lunches with teammates, rounds of UNO, and the empathy mapping session not only gave us moments of relaxation but also helped us connect on a more personal level. The ice had truly been broken, and what was initially a group of strangers quickly started to feel like a team with a shared mission.
From a team of four complete strangers to working together on the project with our community partner, Nepal Christian Relief Services (NCRS), it has been nothing short of amazing. Coming from different backgrounds and experiences, we managed to work together seamlessly, complementing each other’s weak points. Each of us stepped out of our comfort zones, openly sharing ideas and actively participating in discussions. Together, we’re not just a group of people working on a project; we’re a cohesive unit of collaborators, learners, and changemakers, ready to push boundaries and leave a lasting mark. A big thanks to our mentors and facilitators for providing us with informative and interesting sessions, ensuring we all started from the same line despite our varied experiences.
The first community partner meeting was something we all looked forward to, as they are the ones who will use the software we develop. We were a bit nervous, as it was the first time for some of us meeting real clients, but they were warm and welcoming, which made us feel at ease. We discussed the project scope, the need behind it, and how we could make a difference in the lives of those in need. We also decided to meet twice a month to update on the project’s progress and get feedback on the tasks currently being done by the team.
The first playback session with the Inspire team from Canada was amazing. Although it didn’t go as well as we had hoped, the feedback from our mentors was insightful. A bit more practice with formal presentations in front of the camera and a few more rounds of QA sessions before the actual presentation would help boost our confidence and reduce anxiety. The end of the sprint was about discussing and reflecting on our achievements. Looking back at the initial days, there’s a sense of pride in what we’ve already achieved. We’ve successfully tackled low-fidelity designs, established connections with community partners, and started gathering the key requirements for our project. These early accomplishments have set a promising tone for the road ahead.
To sum up, this sprint was filled with new opportunities and challenges. With every challenge, we grow, both individually and as a team. Our growth as a team mirrors our growth as individuals, each learning from the other and pushing beyond our limits. The sweet and bitter experiences gained this time will serve as a cornerstone for us. New challenges await us in the next sprint, and we can’t wait to tackle them. The foundation has been laid, and all that’s left is to add the bricks.