As part of my CAS Creativity strand, I had the opportunity to host the group song segment of Kalakriti, a cultural event in my school that celebrates student talent across various art forms. Hosting was both exciting and intimidating, especially since stage presence has always made me nervous. Although I initially felt apprehensive about addressing a large audience, I chose to take on this responsibility to step outside my comfort zone and build my confidence.
The experience proved to be both enriching and rewarding. Being on stage required me to think quickly, stay composed, and ensure a seamless flow of performances. I realised that hosting involves far more than speaking into a microphone—it requires engaging the audience, coordinating with performers and teachers, and adapting to unexpected changes in real time. Despite my initial hesitation, the encouragement from my peers and the positive atmosphere of the event helped me relax, grow more confident, and genuinely enjoy the process.
Hosting Kalakriti allowed me to explore my strengths, acknowledge my areas for growth, and develop new skills. It also reinforced the importance of teamwork, as the success of the event relied on effective collaboration between hosts, participants, and organizers. Overall, this experience contributed meaningfully to my CAS journey by helping me grow personally and creatively while contributing to a community celebration of art and culture.
LO1: Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth
During the event, I discovered that one of my strengths is my ability to remain calm under pressure and manage transitions smoothly between performances. At the same time, I recognised that my stage presence and confidence still need improvement. Although I made noticeable progress, I understood that continued practice will help me become a more engaging and self-assured speaker.
LO2: Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills
Stepping onto the stage was a significant challenge for me due to my persistent fear of public speaking. Taking on the role of host pushed me to develop new skills such as effective communication, quick decision-making, and audience engagement. I also learned how to manage the pressure of being in the spotlight and the value of thorough preparation. These skills will support me not only in future public speaking situations but also in academic and professional environments.
LO5: Demonstrate skills and benefits of working collaboratively
Kalakriti was a collaborative effort, and I experienced firsthand how essential teamwork is in making events successful. Coordinating with co-hosts, performers, and teachers taught me the importance of clear communication, flexibility, and mutual support. Together, we ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience for both participants and the audience.
Overall, hosting Kalakriti was a memorable and transformative experience. It encouraged me to face my stage-fright, develop new skills, and grow as a communicator. It strengthened my confidence to take on responsibilities beyond my comfort zone and deepened my appreciation for teamwork. This experience has motivated me to continue embracing challenges, practice public speaking, and seek opportunities for growth throughout my CAS journey and beyond.
