Trip to the National Botanic Garden of Wales
An inspiring start to our Shopner Bagicha Community Garden project. This visit was not only an opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature but also a significant step towards promoting community engagement and creativity through the arts.
The primary goal of our visit was to provide our community members with a deeper understanding of botanical diversity and the importance of green spaces. By exploring the rich flora and educational exhibits at the National Botanic Garden, participants gained valuable insights that will inform the development of our own community garden
The Purpose of Our Visit
Highlights of Trip
Guided Tours and Workshops
Participants enjoyed guided tours of the garden, learning about native plants and their ecological significance. The workshops provided hands-on experience with sustainable gardening practices, which will be crucial as we develop Shopner Bagicha.
Art and Creativity
Led by Welsh Bangladeshi Artist, Jaffrin Khan, attendees were encouraged to express their experiences through art. Whether through painting, drawing, or digital illustration, participants had the chance to capture the beauty they saw and felt during the visit. This creative exercise aimed to provide a deeper connection to nature and allowed for personal artistic expression.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
One of the core aspects of the Shopner Bagicha community garden project is promoting mental health and wellbeing within our community. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while enhancing mood and overall mental health. Our visit to the National Botanic Garden of Wales was a testament to this, as participants felt rejuvenated and more connected to both nature and each other. By integrating green spaces and creative activities into our daily lives, we aim to provide a supportive environment that nurtures both physical and mental wellbeing.
Nature Walks
Our nature walks were a highlight for many, offering a peaceful and reflective experience. These walks not only highlighted the biodiversity of the Botanic Garden but also provided inspiration for the types of plants and layout we might consider for Shopner Bagicha.
Community Cookbook
We also began brainstorming ideas for our Community Cookbook. Participants shared their family recipes and discussed how we can incorporate various art mediums to make each recipe come alive. This cookbook will serve as a cultural preservation tool and a way to celebrate the culinary traditions of our community.
The enthusiasm and creativity sparked by this trip will guide us as we continue to develop Shopner Bagicha. Our community garden will not only be a place for growing plants but also a vibrant space for cultural expression and community engagement.
We extend our thanks to all the participants, volunteers, and our partners who made this trip possible. A special thank you to Jaffrin Khan for her artistic guidance and to our community members for their enthusiasm and participation.
Stay tuned for more updates on Shopner Bagicha and how you can get involved. Together, we are cultivating a space where nature and culture thrive side by side
Join us
If you would like to be part of the Shopner Bagicha community garden project or contribute to our Community Cookbook, please get in touch with us at info@bengaldragonsfoundation.org.