CAS | IB - DP: "Startup" in natural essential oil production and its untold stories

Albeit still in high school, the IB-DP Olympians collaborated on a community business project. What makes it even more special is that they experienced every phase—from researching raw materials, understanding production processes, planning communication strategies, managing finances to project operations. This is currently one of the CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) lessons under the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for 11th-grade IB-DP Olympians—the "Natural Essential Oil Production" project.

Originating from a genuine concern for her mother’s health, Lam Uyen, the project leader, shared, "I've always been worried about my mother's health, seeing her constantly searching and trying different ways to improve the air quality for breathing and skin. I also noticed that Vietnam is blessed with abundant natural plants and medicinal herbs. I asked myself, why not create a product from nature as a gift for my mother and a practical contribution to the community?" Thus, the essential oil production project was born, with enthusiastic support from 11th-grade IB-DP Olympians.

The IB-DP Olympians were guided by experts in the field right from the beginning:

> Studying Vietnamese medicinal herbs with Mr. Henry Herbert, the author of "Medicinal Herbs in Vietnam."

> Learning the production process with Dr. Dinh Thi Thu Thuy at the company producing cajeput essential oil – Vien Ninh in Ninh Binh.

> The Olympians also independently explored other stages of essential oil production (such as breeding methods, cultivation practices, etc.) and how the product can reach consumers (marketing plans, business strategies, etc.) with the support of teachers at Olympia.

All profit from the project will be donated to underprivileged children. Sharing about his involvement in this team project, Nhat Minh, the co-leader, enthusiastically said, "When I received the invitation from Lam Uyen, I found the project idea very interesting. Especially when hearing about the community-oriented purpose of the project, I didn't hesitate to accept the role of co-leader and be in charge of business and financial management. I hope that my participation will contribute to the success of the project and create meaningful values for the community. I also believe that the experiences and practical knowledge I gain from the project will give me more confidence in pursuing the university dreams I aspire to."

This Olympian-led project is expected to last for the next two academic years. With a humane and meaningful purpose, it is hoped that the project will inspire the younger generation and contribute positive values to the community. Let's look forward to the future activities of the project!