35 SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production – Team 35

Team Reflection

In our exploration of innovative companies, we delved into the stories of Fox and Robin, Digg It, and Pinkal Lad, each revolutionizing the fashion industry in unique ways. Through the lens of our cross-cultural experience and the knowledge acquired from our courses, we gained invaluable insights into the impact of these innovations on the firms and our own learning journey.

Learnings from Cross-Cultural Experience and Coursework

Our cross-cultural experience provided us with a rich tapestry of perspectives, enabling us to appreciate the diverse approaches to sustainability and innovation adopted by companies worldwide. In the context of our coursework, which emphasized the importance of ethical business practices and sustainable development, these stories illuminated the practical application of theoretical concepts.

Through the story of Fox and Robin, we learned the significance of transparency and fair wages in the supply chain, echoing the principles of ethical sourcing taught in our courses. The emphasis on empowering workers and fostering community engagement resonated with our discussions on corporate social responsibility.

Digg It’s innovative blend of hip-hop culture and sustainability highlighted the intersectionality of fashion and social activism, underscoring the role of businesses as agents of change—a concept we explored extensively in our coursework on social entrepreneurship.

Pinkal Lad’s commitment to sustainable fabrics showcased the transformative power of eco-friendly practices in reshaping the fashion landscape, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship emphasized in our sustainability modules.

Supplementing Teamwork with Course Learnings

The learnings from our courses served as a guiding framework for our teamwork, facilitating informed decision-making and fostering a collaborative environment. By drawing on our collective knowledge of business ethics, sustainability, and social impact, we were better equipped to evaluate the implications of each company’s innovation on their respective industries.

Our discussions were enriched by insights gleaned from course materials, which provided a theoretical foundation for assessing the effectiveness of each company’s approach. By integrating theoretical frameworks with real-world examples, we were able to critically analyze the impact of innovation on business models, supply chains, and stakeholder relationships.

Conducting the Work: Task Sharing and Collaboration

Our work was conducted through a systematic approach that involved task sharing and effective communication. Every team member was assigned specific responsibilities based on their expertise and interests, this ensured a balanced distribution of workload.

We shared tasks based on individual interests & strength, with some the team members focusing on research and analysis, while others took the lead in drafting and editing. We had weekly online meetings and updated each other on progress which facilitated coordination and allowed for constructive feedback, enabling us to refine our analysis and insights collaboratively.

Identifying Successes and Challenges

One aspect that worked well was the diversity of perspectives within our team, which enriched our discussions and enabled us to consider a wide range of viewpoints. By leveraging our collective expertise and experiences, we were able to conduct a comprehensive analysis of each company’s innovation and its implications.

However, we also encountered challenges related to time management and coordination, particularly in balancing coursework commitments with project deadlines. Streamlining communication channels and establishing clear timelines could have mitigated these challenges and enhanced our overall efficiency.

Our exploration of innovative companies provided a valuable opportunity to apply the principles learned in our courses to real-world scenarios. By reflecting on the impact of these innovations on the firms and our own learning journey, we gained a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between theory and practice in the realm of business innovation and sustainability.

Individual Reflections

Nico

Participating in the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) project has been an incredibly enriching experience for me as a South African student from the University of Mpumalanga. Interacting with international students from Spain opened my eyes to diverse perspectives and ways of thinking that I wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. Despite the geographical distance and time zone differences, collaborating with my peers from Spain was seamless and rewarding.

Working with students from a different cultural background not only broadened my understanding of global issues but also provided a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and learn from each other’s experiences. Engaging in discussions about Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 12, responsible consumption and production, deepened my awareness of the environmental and social challenges facing our world today. Moreover, through our collaboration, I gained insights into various other SDGs, expanding my knowledge and appreciation for the interconnectedness of global issues. The experience of navigating different time zones and coordinating schedules to collaborate effectively was both challenging and gratifying. It taught me valuable lessons in communication, time management, and adaptability, skills that are invaluable in today’s interconnected world. I am incredibly grateful to my supervisor and educator Prof, Ferdinand Niyimbanira for giving me the opportunity to be part of the COIL project 2024. It has not only enhanced my academic learning but also fostered friendships and connections across continents. As I reflect on this experience, I am inspired to continue seeking out opportunities for international collaboration and dialogue, recognizing the immense value it brings to my personal and academic growth.

Nkululeko

It was an interesting and exciting experience to be a part of COIL in 2024 for many reasons. To name a few, it gave us the opportunity to interact with people from different countries, which is important in today’s globalized world. Having to interact with students from Spain was one of the things I would like to draw attention to. It provided a chance for me to connect with people outside of my own country, particularly considering some of the topics about SDG 12 that were discussed. Additionally, I gained experience working with individuals in different time zones, which improved my ability to collaborate with peers and better organize myself. Get to know the Sustainable Development Goals better. My own opinion is that the work we perform in the COIL must be something that is made to be a norm to many varsities, so that it can be able to access all sorts of intelligence from the world population to make sure all the goals are met.