The night before, I carefully reviewed my checklist and packed my bag with sunscreen, insect repellent, gloves, and plenty of water. It turned out to be a wise decision—the sun was blazing, and insects were everywhere. Excitement bubbled inside me as I prepared to explore the forest.
When we arrived, I joined in planting a small new forest near the Notre Dame de La Salette church. It was an unforgettable experience! My classmates, teachers, and community members all worked together with joy and energy.
Endemika’s Contribution
Mrs. Saloni Soopramanien, Nursery Manager at Société Rouillard Frères (Endemika Project), provided 102 endemic plants from over 20 different species—a truly remarkable contribution. Planting a forest matters deeply: it helps purify the air, supports biodiversity, and creates a safe habitat for wildlife.
Teamwork and Friendship
I was grateful to meet wonderful, kind-hearted friends. We supported one another, especially when carrying heavy plant bags. My role was to add fertilizer, which I enjoyed wholeheartedly. During a short break, a kind lady even shared peanut butter sandwiches with us—a simple but touching gesture.
Learning the Miyawaki Method
I also learned about the Miyawaki method, developed by Akira Miyawaki. This technique taught us the proper way to plant a tree while ensuring the survival and growth of the forest.
A Message of Hope
At one point, my teacher and another community member read a letter from Pope Francis, addressed to all of humanity. His words inspired us to keep working hard and reminded us to remain grateful for the opportunity to contribute.
More Than Planting Trees
This day wasn’t only about trees—it was about people too. I saw two friends share a heartfelt hug after a long time apart, reminding me that volunteering brings people together, rekindles bonds, and creates meaningful memories.
Looking Ahead
Next time, I hope to make an even greater impact on the environment by returning to volunteer again.
Check out this video showcasing my previous volunteer work at Tiny Forest:
https://www.youtube.com/@ryalistic
