Category: Learning

Bangalore Through a Climate Lens: What the City Taught Me

22nd to 26th July

My visit to Bangalore wasn’t just another trip—it was a deep dive into how cities can hold the key to climate solutions, if we just learn to look closely.

We began at Yours Truly Theatre, where stories unfolded with emotion and urgency. One powerful takeaway? Art can be activism. It made me think about how climate change isn’t just data and policies—it’s about people, feelings, and communities who live with its consequences.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden was a gentle but firm reminder of what urban green spaces mean in a world heating up. Walking among century-old trees and watching bees buzz around native plants, I could feel the climate clock ticking—and how green lungs like Lalbagh are fighting quietly to keep cities breathing.

At Hasiru Dala, the reality hit harder. We met waste warriors—individuals who are often invisible in city systems, yet are doing the most climate-responsible work: segregation, recycling, and reducing landfill waste. Their dignity, strength, and clarity changed how I look at garbage forever. Climate action, I realized, isn’t glamorous—it’s gritty and grounded.

Meeting Mr. Shibulal was like being handed a compass. He spoke not only of business but of responsibility—how innovation must serve sustainability. Then at Reap Benefit, we saw how simple local problems can be tackled with climate-smart solutions. From water conservation to air quality monitoring, they’re proving that change doesn’t need a stage—it just needs commitment.

We walked through Cubbon Park, where massive trees stood like old guardians. In a city rushing ahead with buildings and tech, this space felt like a reminder to pause, protect, and coexist. Climate resilience isn’t just about carbon cuts—it’s about protecting spaces where life can thrive.

At MAP (Museum of Art & Photography), I saw the intersection of culture and climate. Through photographs and installations, the silent crisis of environmental loss echoed through art. It reminded me that even history will one day be judged by how we treated our planet.

Our last night was emotional—a formal farewell, where we celebrated, reflected, and probably cried a little. Over Mexican food, we weren’t just sharing nachos—we were sharing hope. Hope that our generation, having seen these realities up close, will act more mindfully.

Bangalore showed me that climate change isn’t always about disasters and headlines. Sometimes, it’s in compost bins, rainwater tanks, green parks, and the voices of waste pickers. I came back with questions, ideas, and a fire to do more.

Gallery

I learned that waste is not just waste,

It can become something with purpose and taste.

Old garbage turned into school tables and chairs,

Milk packs cut tiny now toys we can share.

Big work or small, it doesn’t define,

As long as you eat, and a home is mine.

Theatre taught me something deep,

That the Earth is crying while we sleep.

We treat its pain like it’s not there,

Invisible damage, floating in air.

One day, I’ll build a smart machine,

To sort wet and dry  clean and green.

Museums tell the stories lost,

Of women’s beauty, and what it cost.

Fashion, body, color or size,

No need to hide, no need disguise.

Thin or fat, dark or light,

Every woman is a beautiful sight.

The forest is where life begins,

It teaches how to lose and win.

Under trees, we find our breath,

A little nap, escaping stress.

Dreams grow like leaves in the sun,

A quiet place for everyone.

Infosys I’ve heard the name,

In Bengaluru, it earned its fame.

A campus big, full of tech and dreams,

Where knowledge flows in steady streams.

One day I might walk there too,

With ideas bright and heart so true.

Gallery

My Best Nature Walk in Cubbon Park –

When I first heard about Cubbon Park, I couldn’t stop wondering what it would be like—how the trees might sway, what kind of birds might sing, and what new plants I might come across. I imagined a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city. And let me tell you, my experience didn’t just match those thoughts—it went far beyond!

First Impressions 🌳
The moment I stepped into the park, I was welcomed by the soft rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. It was calm, soothing, and everything I needed to feel grounded. In a fast-paced world, that kind of peace is rare—and Cubbon Park offers it effortlessly.

A Forest of Giants
As I wandered deeper, I came across so many trees—tall, strong, and majestic. Some were really huge, and just being near them made me realize how powerful and important nature truly is. What brought a huge smile to my face was finding out that many of these trees also grow in my home state, Jharkhand. That little discovery made me feel connected, like a piece of home was right there with me in Bengaluru.

A Flower That Follows Water 💧🌸
One of the most eye-catching sights was the Gibiliya flower. It looked so beautiful and delicate. But what fascinated me the most is something I never knew before: this flower blooms wherever there’s water! Nature really has its own intelligent way of thriving, and moments like these remind me of how much there is still to learn.

A Walk With the Birds 🐦
Here comes my favorite part—birdwatching! I had downloaded a bird sound recognition app before visiting the park, just out of curiosity. During a short 5-minute walk, I used it to listen and identify different bird sounds around me. And guess what? I discovered bird names I had never heard in my life! It was like getting a crash course in wildlife music. This little experiment made my walk so much more meaningful and educational.

Takeaway: A Habit for Life
This experience has sparked something new in me. Now, whenever I visit a garden or forest, I plan to do the same—take a quiet walk, listen closely, and let nature speak. It’s a habit I’m happy to carry forward.

Cubbon Park turned out to be more than just a city park—it was a doorway into the wonders of nature. From discovering trees that reminded me of home, to hearing birds I never knew existed, every part of the walk was refreshing and memorable.

I spent my second week in India,Ahmedabad. The week has been nothing but the good opportunity for me to learn about the the history Ahmedabad,nature and to connect connect with it.We attended several presentations where we got the information about the nature. We did not only do that but we visited places where we can actually feel the nature and connect with it.In one of the workshops we attended we presented a poster on how climate change affects different countries.We again visited historical places and got a chance to see the most amazing building and buildings that were operating in the past. One of my favorite activity we did was hiking in the mountain because I saw a water fall and waterfall is my favorite natural feature. 

One thing that I had learnt and started to practice is meditating.

I’m happy to say I can now be able to link climate change with nature and building structures.

Gallery

Ahmedabad is state in India, The old town of Ahmedabad has old buildings of Mosque and Temples.

MY FIRST DAY IN AHMEDABAD

It was Sunday morning, my team and I move from New Delhi to Ahmedabad. I was very excited because that was the first time I traveled with my team with the same Aeroplane. We met new leaders and they took as to our destination. We all started introducing ourselves to our new leaders.

NEXT DAY IN AHMEDABAD 

The climate in Ahmedabad and new delhi was different, in delhi the weather was hot and in Ahmedabad weather is extremely hot. We first visit the Centre for environmental and education. I was sweating that day and tired too. I learn a lot at the center for environmental and education. It is a nice place and the green is everywhere I was unhappy because in my country Ghana we are losing nature. Trees are dying, water bodies are drying too. I feel nature that day, how the birds was whispering. I was connected to nature that day.
in the evening we went out and learn the india dance

3RD DAY IN AHMEDABA

We visit a, at first I thought the river has been polluted but no. The colour of the water is green 

DAY 4 IN AHMEDABAD 

It was very excited and a long day too, we pay a visit to a forest, the name of the forest is Polo forest 

DAY 5 IN AHMEDABAD  

We go to old Ahmedabad, that is how I realized that new Ahmedabad is hot more than old Ahmedabad I am happy because after we visit any place the leaders ask for reflections, the reason for the reflection is to know if you understand whatever they taught

Gallery

The first few days were so special for me. I immediately thought about the travellers who used to come to my school when I was little, and how hard it was for them to be understood.

It’s not like I ever looked down on them I had just never really asked myself how they might have felt.

Apart from the difficulty I had expressing myself, which really unsettled me, I enjoyed the city it has some very beautiful monuments.

But I think what struck me the most were the monkeys and cows in the streets literally in the middle of a capital 

The architecture and history are amazing. They made me realize how long the empire lasted, and that’s what makes India’s culture so rich and diverse

Gallery

Today I went to the Red Fort and explored many things. I saw the beautiful red walls, big courtyards, and old buildings that tell stories from the past. I learned about the history of the Mughal rulers and how important this place is for India. I felt proud and amazed to walk in such a historical place. As well, I went to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. The view from the steps was so beautiful, and the peaceful environment made me feel calm and happy. After that, I visited Chandni Bazaar. It was full of colorful shops, delicious street food, and traditional items. I enjoyed walking through the busy lanes and looking at the different things people were selling. Visiting these places helped me connect with our rich culture and history. It was a day full of learning, joy, and wonderful memories

Gallery

Exploring Delhi was filled with unique experiences. Our first stop was a cigarette recycling company in Noida, which was an eye-opening visit. We learned that discarded cigarette butts are collected by rag-pickers and brought to the facility for recycling. The process involves segregating the butts, grinding them into a partial solid and liquid solution, and then treating it with chemicals and water to remove impurities, colors, and bacteria.

The mixture is left to soak for 24 hours, after which the liquid is drained using a centrifuge machine. The remaining material is then dried and transformed into threads, which can be colored and woven into various products such as cloth bags and purses. Witnessing the creative process of turning waste into something useful was truly inspiring.

As a token of appreciation, we were given handbags made from recycled cigarette butts, which we got to paint and customize with our own artwork. It was amazing to see everyone’s creativity shine through their designs.

After returning to the Youth Center, we had a fun-filled clay modeling session where we showcased our artistic skills. The creations were diverse, ranging from clowns and snakes to cars, bowls, and turtles. It was impressive to see the variety of art models that emerged from our imagination.

The next session was led by Mr. Tabish, who asked us to enact a drama highlighting five essential values for building a strong team or leadership: respect, curiosity, sustainability, and more. Through teamwork and creativity, we brought these values to life on stage. It was a great way to wrap up the day, filled with learning and creativity.

Gallery