On January 20, 2025, I joined the High Atlas Foundation’s (HAF) 12th annual Tree Planting Day, and what a beautiful, life-changing experience it turned out to be. It was so much more than simply putting saplings in the ground—it was a chance to feel connected to something bigger than myself, and to share in an incredible moment with so many others. I traveled to the Centre De Renforcement Des Capacités Des Femmes, Tahanaoute and the Amizmiz nursery, where we came together with children, women, farmers, and university students to plant trees. It was a simple act, but the energy in the air made it feel so much more important.

In both places, I was struck by the warmth and kindness of the people. We laughed, helped each other with the planting, and shared the joy of working together. Every time I looked up, I was met with smiles and greetings that made me feel like I was part of something so special. These trees were not just trees—they were symbols of hope and resilience, reminders that no matter the challenges we face, we can still grow and create a better future.

One of the most touching parts of the day was planting alongside the community members in Tahnaout, their enthusiasm for the day and their plans for the future. I also worked with the volunteers and the farmer in Amizmiz, who spoke about his dreams for his family, his land, and his future. Their hands were rough from years of working the land, but their hearts were full of wisdom and love for the earth. As we planted the olive tree saplings I felt like we were building something together; a bond not just between us, but with the earth. The act of planting, of caring for these little saplings, felt like an expression of hope, not just for the land, but for the people around me.

In Tahnaoute, we planted olive trees, chosen because of their strength and resilience. These trees will weather the harsh conditions, just as the people there do. In Amizmiz, we heard from HAF Monitoring Officer, Abdeljalil, who is responsible for tree monitoring. These trees will provide shade, improve the soil, and one day bear fruit to feed their families. As I stood on the land, I couldn’t help but feel that we were creating something that would last far beyond us. These trees were a gift to the future—a lasting legacy that would continue to grow long after we had left.

There was something so powerful about seeing the children in Tahanaoute dig into the soil with excitement. They weren’t just planting trees—they were planting dreams. To them, it wasn’t just about the environment; it was about making sure that their world would be better for their children and grandchildren. Their joy was contagious, and it reminded me that taking care of the planet isn’t just a responsibility, but a privilege. We were all a part of something that was bigger than any one of us.

By the end of the day, I couldn’t stop thinking about what it means to plant a tree. It’s an act of faith, a way of saying, "I believe in tomorrow." It’s a promise that life will go on, that the earth will keep giving, and that we are all connected by our shared love and care for the world around us. The act of planting these trees was a reminder that even in the most difficult times, hope can take root and grow.

Tree Day Planting wasn’t just about planting trees—it was about planting a sense of community, hope, and responsibility. It was a reminder that when we come together, we can create real, lasting change. The work we did together that day will continue to bear fruit, not just for the land, but for the people who live there. And that, to me, is what makes this experience so deeply meaningful.