. "Blood, Care, and Commitment: Sakshi Ramlugon's Initiative Strengthens Community Health"

Can you tell me about your project related to health and well-being? What was its main goal?

My project focused on promoting SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being – through organizing blood donation drives in both Canada and Mauritius, as well as a free medical camp in Mauritius. The primary goal of the blood donation drives was to save lives and support critical medical treatments such as surgeries, cancer care, and emergency interventions. The free medical camp aimed to detect early signs of illness by providing accessible health screenings, including blood pressure checks, glucose testing, free blood tests, and general medical consultations.

What inspired you to choose this particular health issue for your project?

The inspiration came from observing how preventable health issues often go undetected due to a lack of routine check-ups, especially among underserved populations. I also realized the critical and ongoing need for safe blood supplies in hospitals. Personally, I have seen how timely blood donations can save lives, and I wanted to contribute meaningfully to this cause by mobilizing people to act.

Can you share some of the activities or actions you took as part of your project?

As part of the project, I coordinated with local clinics and healthcare professionals in Mauritius to set up free medical screenings and consultations. We arranged services such as blood pressure checks, blood tests and glucose testing, and general health assessments. I also worked with blood banks in both Mauritius and Canada to organize safe and efficient blood donation drives. Additionally, I led awareness campaigns using posters, social media, and word of mouth to educate the public about the importance of donating blood and attending routine health check-ups. Recruiting volunteers and managing logistics were also key parts of ensuring everything ran smoothly on the day of the events.

How did you and your team work together to make your project successful?

Teamwork was vital. We divided responsibilities based on strengths—some managed logistics and partnerships with health institutions, others handled outreach and communication. We held regular meetings, shared updates via group chats and email, and supported each other throughout the process. Our collaborative spirit and shared vision helped build trust and ensured everything ran smoothly on event days.

Did you face any challenges while working on your project? How did you overcome them?

Yes, one of the main challenges we faced was that many people were afraid of needles, which made them hesitant to donate blood. To overcome this, we focused on education and emotional support. We provided clear information about the safety and importance of blood donation, and on the day of the event, we made sure to stay with the donors throughout the process. We comforted them, talked to them to ease their nerves, and created a calm, supportive atmosphere so they felt safe and encouraged. This personal approach really helped, especially with first-time donors.

What do you think was the most important thing you learned from working on this project?

This project taught me that even the smallest actions can create a ripple effect of positive change. It was inspiring to see how raising awareness and bringing people together could empower individuals to take steps toward better health—whether by donating blood or getting a simple screening. The experience showed me that community spirit and collective effort are powerful forces, and when people unite around a common cause, the impact can be truly transformative.

Can you describe any positive changes or improvements you observed as a result of your project?

As a result of the project, we observed an increased willingness to donate blood, especially among youth and first-time donors, which was very encouraging. The free medical camp also helped in the early detection of undiagnosed health conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, allowing individuals to seek timely medical care. Additionally, the initiative strengthened community trust in local health programs, encouraging more people to participate in future health-related activities.

Did you receive any feedback from your classmates, teachers, or community members about your project? If so, what was it?

Yes, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Healthcare professionals praised the initiative’s organization and community impact. Many participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to receive medical checkups without cost. Some donors mentioned they felt proud to contribute to saving lives and were eager to join again.

How do you feel your project has contributed to promoting health and well-being among your peers or in your community?

I believe my project has helped create a culture of proactive health care and community support. By making blood donation and health screenings accessible and welcoming, we encouraged people to take charge of their own health and understand its importance. This initiative also fostered a sense of responsibility and solidarity, showing that by working together, we can improve not only individual lives but also the well-being of our entire community.

What are your plans or ideas for continuing to work on this issue in the future?

Moving forward, I plan to provide webinars online to reach a wider audience with valuable health education, making it easier for people to access information regardless of their location. Additionally, I aim to establish a mental health program in schools across Mauritius to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and provide support to young people facing mental health challenges. In addition to these initiatives, I plan to create an anonymous online platform—a website dedicated to individuals suffering from mental health issues. This website will offer a safe, confidential space where people can seek information, access resources, and connect with mental health support without fear of stigma.