Part 4

Bella and Maya faced different challenges but remained determined in their efforts to promote recycling and clean-up initiatives. They recruited volunteers and convinced skeptical businesses to participate. At the end of the event, they expressed gratitude to the volunteers and celebrated their accomplishments. Maya encouraged the volunteers to continue spreading awareness about sustainability. They shared memorable experiences and expressed pride in their impact. Maya and Bella planned to have dinner together and rest after a successful day. Meanwhile, Just learned about John's close friendship with Aval and their business partnership. John admired Aval's ambition and drive, which led him to join the business despite coming from a different background. Just asked John about leadership, and John explained that a leader must have a vision and inspire others to join in pursuing shared goals. Just was inspired by this and wanted to learn from Aval. He also questioned whether everyone is a Undeterred, Bella pressed on, her determination unwavering. She struck up conversations with passers-by, sharing anecdotes about the importance of recycling and reducing waste. She even managed to recruit a few new volunteers along the way, their enthusiasm bolstering her own. Meanwhile, Maya found herself faced with a different set of challenges as she approached local businesses. Some were open to the idea of partnering with the city clean-up event, eager to show their support for environmental initiatives. Others were more skeptical, citing concerns about cost and logistics. But Maya refused to be discouraged. She presented her case with confidence and conviction, emphasizing the positive impact that participating in the event could have on their reputation and community engagement. Slowly but surely, she began to win over even the most reluctant of business owners. Finally, it was time to conclude the event and head back to the meeting point. Eventually everyone gathered around at Logan Park, humming with chatter as they discussed their experiences with each other. All right, everyone, Maya called out, her voice ringing out over the hum of conversations. Let's gather round for our final debrief. As the group settled into a circle, Maya and Bella took turns expressing their gratitude to each volunteer, thanking them for their hard work, dedication, and passion. We couldn't have done it without each and every one of you, Bella said, her voice filled with sincerity. Your efforts today have made a real difference in our community, and for that, we are truly grateful. The volunteers smiled, their faces glowing with pride and satisfaction. For many of them, this had been their first experience with community service, and they were grateful for the opportunity to give back. Thank you all for your hard work and dedication today, Maya began, her tone filled with gratitude. We've accomplished so much, but there's still more to be done. Bella nodded in agreement, her eyes scanning the group with a sense of pride. Maya continued to address the volunteers, we've seen firsthand the impact that small actions can have on our community. Look around yourself, I believe that you will get a very good sleep tonight thinking, that even if very small but you all made a difference today. This camaraderie between the volunteers will live on beyond the confines of this day and I believe that everyone will continue to spread the knowledge and experience of volunteering today in their personal lives. Until we meet again, let's carry that momentum forward and continue to spread awareness about sustainability and environmental stewardship. The volunteers murmured their agreement, their faces alight with determination. But before we wrap up for the day, Maya continued, I want to hear what experiences and moments from today will be most memorable for you. If anyone would like to share, please come forward, I had some amazing conversations with folks at the farmer's market, one volunteer exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. They were really receptive to the idea of composting and reducing food waste. Another volunteer chimed in, I helped organize a mini cleanup at the local playground. It was incredible to see the kids getting involved and learning about the importance of keeping our community clean. As the volunteers took turns sharing their experiences, Maya and Bella listened intently, their hearts swelling with pride at the passion and dedication of their fellow community members. From heartwarming encounters with grateful residents to inspiring conversations about the importance of environmental conservation, each story served as a reminder of the impact their efforts had made. After listening to all the stories and exchanging words of encouragement, Maya and Bella led the group in a final round of applause, celebrating the success of the day's events. With a final word of thanks and encouragement, Maya and Bella dispersed the group, their hearts full of gratitude for the opportunity to make a difference in their community. As Maya and Bella regrouped beneath the oak tree, they exchanged weary smiles, their faces flushed with the exertion of the day's efforts. Looks like we covered a lot of ground, Maya remarked, her voice tinged with satisfaction. Bella nodded, her gaze sweeping over the bustling park. Definitely, it's amazing to see how so many people are passionate about making a difference. It is also amazing to see when so many people come together the work gets easier and fun. The sun was about to set below the horizon, and a gentle evening breeze whispered through the trees. Maya and Bella watched as the last of the volunteers made their way out of the park, their arms laden with bags of recyclables and hearts full of pride. Looks like everyone's gone, Maya remarked, rising from the bench and stretching her arms above her head. I think it is time that we leave as well. Bella nodded, a sense of contentment washing over her. Sounds like a plan. Let's go to my place. We can have dinner together and you can see just as well. He should be reaching home right about now. Maya agreed to this proposal, moreover, she was very tired to make a straight trip to her house. She could help Bella cook food and could head home after some rest. It would be a win-win situation for both, scene shifts to a few hours back where Aval and Just are back from their lunch break. As Aval was busy with a few meetings after the lunch. Hence, he advised Just to go and see John. Soon, a soft knock could be heard on the door. John calls out come in. It was Just at the door. As he entered, he greeted John good afternoon. His office had a very subtle fruity fragrance mixed with coffee fragrance. John was working on his computer and sipping a cup of coffee. As soon as he saw Just, he told him, there you are. How was the lunch with Aval? Out of everyone in the office, only John knew Just's relationship with Aval as they were close college friends. Curious about John's relationship with Aval, he hesitantly asked, so, have you known Aval for a long time? Just remarked, his curiosity peaked. John nodded with a nostalgic smile playing at the corners of his lips. Yes, we go way back. We've been through a lot together, and Aval has always been someone I admire for his ambition and drive. We met at the University of Millwood where we studied business management. John continued to say, I admire him especially because he comes from a modest service class family, and I come from a large business family. But his passion and drive about starting his own business were so strong that it pulsated out of his personality. This made me appreciate him ever since. Just was even more curious now, so, what made you decide that you would join him in his business rather than working with your own family business? Just asked, eager to delve deeper into John's motivations. John paused for a moment, his gaze distant as he reflected on the past. I was skeptical at first as I had to leave my family business, which was not easy. I think there were multiple reasons that pushed me towards this decision. First being my family hierarchy. I am the smallest son in the family, which reduces my chances of inheriting the family business. Secondly, Aval gave me an opportunity that I could not refuse at that time. With a very friendly gesture, he proposed the idea of his first business and asked for my help in building the business from the ground up. With a lot of emotions flooding over his face, he continued, it was a gesture of profound respect and friendship, one that I couldn't turn down. Lastly, I never envisioned myself as a natural born entrepreneur. I didn't possess the innate qualities of a leader. Instead, I found fulfillment in supporting Aval and contributing to his endeavors. Just nodded, impressed by John's dedication and loyalty to his friend. It was clear that their partnership ran deep, forged by years of shared experiences and a common goal. As John finished speaking, just found himself contemplating another question that had been on his mind. What does it mean to be a leader and what does it take to become one? John paused to take another sip of coffee to contemplate his response and began by saying. Being a leader holds different meanings for different people, he began, his voice tinged with wisdom. In my view, what makes a good leader is someone who has a vision and stays true to its vision while facing any adversities. A leader's vision must be infectious, inspiring others to believe in it and compelling them to willingly join in the pursuit of shared goals. Just found himself deeply affected by John's words, shaking him to his core. The idea of a leader resonated deeply with him. He thought if he could work towards becoming a leader like this, he would eventually be respected by people around him like Ovil is respected by the people working for him. He also knew that this was an extremely challenging goal. He will have to change his personality and perception of how to deal with people. He made a mental note to observe Ovil's personality and behavior closely. The idea of learning from his mentor excited him. While lost in his thoughts, a very quirky question popped into his mind. He thought he should ask away as there was no one else better than John to answer it. John was taken aback by Just's insightful question. Isn't everyone a leader? Just's inquiry was thought-provoking, and John knew it would require careful consideration. You know, not everyone is a leader, he began, his expression thoughtful. At most, someone may be willing to take responsibility for themselves, but there are those who don't even do that much. A true leader not only takes charge of themselves but also assumes responsibility for those around them. The extent to which someone takes on responsibility for others determines the magnitude of their leadership. Just still wanted to know more. But why doesn't anyone want to be a leader? John thought, every time this little guy has a smart question to ask. This one will also be tricky to answer. John does not hesitate to call out this is a very smart question Just. It is because how we are genetically wired and how our society works. To simply answer your question and not going into too much detail, have you heard of a term called, sheep mentality? Just's eyes widened with intrigue. This was new territory for him, and he was eager to learn more. I haven't heard of that before, he admitted, his curiosity peaked. What does it mean? John prepared himself to explain, knowing he would need to start from the basics. Well, think about it like this, he began, gesturing for Just to envision the scenario. Have you ever noticed how certain fashion trends or behaviors seem to catch on quickly and spread like wildfire? It's like everyone suddenly wants to wear the same style of clothing or follow the same trend. That's because many people exhibit what we call sheep mentality. They prefer to blend in with the crowd, like sheep in a herd, Just nodded, beginning to grasp the concept. So, who leads the pack of sheep? He inquired, sensing there was more to the analogy. John smiled, appreciating Just's engagement. That's where it gets interesting, he replied. In our analogy, someone who leads the pack of sheep is usually a dog, who is cunning, fast, and active. Who runs around all day and guides the pack of sheep. So, to be a leader we have to opt to be different from the sheep and be a dog instead. But here's the catch, being a leader often means standing alone, without the comfort of the herd. The sheep never mix in or get friendly with the dog. This is a scary feeling for most of us as we are social animals. It requires courage and resilience to withstand the pressures of standing out. Just absorb this information, pondering the implications. The idea of standing apart from the crowd was daunting, yet intriguing. So, only those who dare to be different can become true leaders? He ventured, seeking confirmation. John nodded, his expression grave yet resolute. Exactly! Legendary leaders are forged from those who have the courage to stand out, to be the lone dog guiding the herd. It's a daunting path, but one that can lead to greatness. Just sat in awe, hanging on to every word that flowed from John's lips. He knew that every word of John was a very simplified version of his years of experience he has gained by managing the two manufacturing businesses for Ovil. But John wasn't finished yet, he continued by suggesting, I know these are your holidays, but I highly recommend you reading about two legendary leaders. The first is Mahatma Gandhi, whose peaceful revolution paved the way for Indian independence. And the second is Nelson Mandela, a beacon of hope and resilience as the first president of South Africa. If you take the time to learn about their lives and legacies, I'd love to hear your thoughts whenever you're ready to discuss. John was a very good speaker. He could motivate a dead corpse to start running, just thought to himself. He was already too motivated to learn about business, now after listening to John, he was simply ready to burst with emotions. The excitement, energy, joy, wonder, happiness, and much more filled him from the inside. John found himself feeling a bit drained after delivering such an extensive lecture to Just. When he inquired if Just had any more questions, Just responded with an enthusiastic yes. John couldn't help but brace himself for another barrage of inquiries. All right, what is it? He asked, taking a deep breath to prepare himself for what was to come. Just launched into a rapid-fire round of questioning, his curiosity evident in his eagerness to learn. John couldn't help but feel a mixture of amusement and slight exasperation at Just's animated expressions, but he knew that the matter at hand required his full attention. As Just listened intently, his face contorted into various expressions, each one more comical than the last. John did his best to maintain his composure, resisting the urge to burst into laughter at Just's antics. This was a serious discussion, after all. Setting aside the momentary distraction, John delved into Just's question about the role of a general manager. He explained that the position could vary depending on the type and scale of business operations. In his case, as a general manager overseeing two manufacturing businesses for Ovil, his role involved managing a team of managers who oversaw different departments within each business. John elaborated on the responsibilities of the other general managers, highlighting the collaborative nature of their work in supporting Ovil and ensuring the smooth functioning and growth of the business. Each general manager played a slightly different role within the organization, but their collective efforts were essential for facilitating communication and implementing best practices across various teams. In essence, the role of a general manager was to oversee the general processes related to business operations, ensuring efficiency, coordination, and success within their respective domains. To be more specific, we act as expert project managers who analyze demand and strategically allocate resources to manage the business efficiently and ultimately make it profitable. If anything goes awry within our jurisdiction, it's our responsibility to rectify it, and we are answerable to the boss, Ovil. We must approach our responsibilities with strategic foresight, effectively managing risks, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and demonstrating strong leadership while also being team players. This means that we must wear many hats and excel in every aspect of our role. Only then can we truly serve as the supporting pillars for our leader. However, I should refrain from using the term leader or mentioning Ovil directly. Instead, I should refer to him as a stakeholder. Stakeholders of the business encompass all its beneficiaries, including suppliers, customers, employees, and government entities. As you progress in your learning journey here, you'll come to understand the significance of this concept and its implications for our roles and responsibilities within the organization. Okay, finally, the last question. Where are the other general managers? Just eagerly awaited John's response, ready to absorb more knowledge. John chuckled, a hint of amusement in his voice. Hold your horses there, just. It's important to focus on the opportunity in front of you first. Diving into the discussion about other general managers at this early stage might overwhelm you with information. Just nodded, acknowledging the wisdom in John's words. Despite feeling a tad overwhelmed already, he was here to learn, and he was determined to make the most of it. He resolved to absorb as much knowledge as possible and ask questions whenever needed. John continued, his tone reassuring. But, I can tell you that there are four more general managers like me. Each of us manages two businesses. I oversee the production businesses, so starting here will provide you with a solid foundation. Once you've got your bearings, you'll have the opportunity to meet and learn from the others. He then proceeded to illustrate the organizational hierarchy, pulling up an organizational chart on his computer. With a slight twist of the monitor, he positioned it towards Jest, inviting him to take a closer look. As you can see, John explained, pointing to different levels on the chart, Ovil sits at the top of the pyramid. Directly under him are us five general managers. Below us are the managers of various departments, and in some cases, we have directors working under us, especially if the department is quite sizable. In that case, the department managers report to the directors and the directors report to us general managers. After speaking for what felt like ages, John leaned back in his chair, taking a moment to catch his breath. He glanced at Jest, noticing the thoughtful expression on his face. It dawned on him that he might have overwhelmed the young teenager with all the information. Recognizing the need to give Jest some time to process, John decided to pause and let the gravity of their conversation sink in. Jest, on the other hand, was grappling with a sudden realization, he had forgotten to bring his notebook. Oh, what was I thinking? Jest scolded himself silently. This was a momentous occasion, the lecture from John was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and he forgot to bring his notebook. Not keeping notes means missing out on valuable insights that might not come around again. Right now, the only thing that he could do is try to remember all these details until he reached back home and write them down. Drawing on what he had learned from Brilliant Supply Chain, if he could successfully organize the information with logic, he could remember the details for longer time. He needed time to logically organize all this information. Seeing Jest slipping into his daydreams, John gently nudged him back to reality. So, did you understand how things work around here? He inquired, observing Jest's nod of affirmation. Great, John continued, I believe that is a lot of information for today. Let's take a break, I need some coffee. Would you like to have some? John was a coffee addict, he could drink coffee all day. However, Jest knew that indulging in more than one cup of coffee a day could lead to discomfort. Politely, he declined the offer, understanding that Jest needed time to process all the information. John suggested, I have a perfect place in mind where you can sit and contemplate all your ideas. Have you seen the reception area? Jest replied, yes. Great, John replied. There's a cafeteria right beside it. It has large translucent glass doors. Jest used by the employees for lunch. However, as lunch is already over, there shouldn't be anyone there. If you don't find it, simply ask Aisha, she will guide you there. I spoke to Abel, he was planning on dropping you home today. So, find your way to his office before 5. Yes sir, Jest replied. He thought in his mind that John was supposed to take him on the office tour, probably he was busy as well. Instead, he could use this time to explore the office himself and try to implement the memory management techniques learned from Brilliant Supply Chain. Just slowly walk towards the double doors of the office room and open one side of the door. As he was about to step out, John shouted his name. Hey, Jest, listen up. Tomorrow's plan is that we will see Champ. He is the production manager at one of our facilities. So, come 30 minutes early and we will drive there in my car. Listening to John, Jest became even more excited. He thought his visit to the office was getting better and better as time passed. Jest replied to John, okay, sounds great, I will be here at 8.30 sharp. I will see you tomorrow. Okay, you take care, and I will see you tomorrow, said John. Jest closed the door behind him as he left. As Jest walked through the narrow walkways of the office building, he found himself completely absorbed in his thoughts about his conversation with John. He realized that the conversation had nudged him into a direction of how he should build his character and personality. These aspects of one's life are often neglected but are equally important. Engrossed in his thoughts, Jest walked right past the reception area and was about to enter the narrow walkway on the other side. Unable to recognize his surroundings, he stopped and looked around to analyze his location. Aisha noticed Jest startled and confusingly turning his head from left to right. She thought he might be lost and could use some help, so she made her way over to him. Hi, Mr. Gray, are you looking for someone? Can I help you with something? She asked kindly. Jest turned around and saw Aisha standing behind him. Her voice was unmistakable, with a very high-pitched tone and a melodic quality to it. Jest thought that when she spoke, it was like a chime ringing in the air. Breaking out of his thoughts, he replied, I am looking for the cafeteria, perhaps you can point me in the right direction. Jest's response was very polite and filled with chivalry, Aisha simply pointed her finger in the direction of the two large translucent glass doors. Above the doors, a sign clearly stated cafeteria. Jest realized it was right in front of his eyes, just as John had described. He thanked Aisha and started walking toward the cafeteria. The cafeteria resembled his school canteen, with benches spread all around the premises. It was a very clean cafeteria hence, appeared to be rarely used or recently cleaned after the lunch. Further in the distance he could see a kitchen area and some empty shelves. Jest walked inside and settled on one of the benches. With only a short time left until 5 p.m., he decided to take a moment to reflect on his day. There were so many new experiences he had encountered. He had toured the warehouse, observed the process of designing a new product, learned about the importance of building a strong team, and engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with John that offered insights into the characteristics of a leader. The day's experiences had left a profound impact on him. As he sat quietly at the table, he practiced a few mental exercises to absorb all the information he had gathered. He realized there was no need to rush into deciding where to start his learning journey. Instead, he looked forward to the next day when he would visit one of Abel's production facilities. The anticipation filled him with excitement as he made a mental note to bring his notebook this time. As Jest contemplated all the information he had absorbed, he glanced at the time. It was 15 minutes to 5, signaling the time to see Abel in his office. Entering Abel's office, Jest noticed Abel engrossed in a phone call. Abel gestured for Jest to take a seat until he finished the call. Once done, Abel turned his attention to Jest, asking about his day and what he had learned. Without hesitation, Jest began recounting everything that had fascinated him. As Jest spoke, Abel stood up and gathered his belongings, signaling that it was time to leave. Let's continue our conversation on our way back home, Abel suggested. As they conversed, Abel inquired if there was a particular area Jest was keen on learning about first. This question mirrored the very one Jest had been mulling over. He explained that, for now, he was intrigued by the new product design process and wished to observe how the team navigated towards their target goals. Abel was impressed by Jest's choice. Learning about the product design was a great starting point because understanding the product, will help him understand the other business processes better. However, he also expressed concern about the time frame, explaining, the product development process is extensive and may exceed the duration of your summer break. Currently, the team is only at the concept stage, what we call proof of concept. Subsequent steps include creating paper and digital 3D models, prototypes, and conducting primary research to gauge customer needs. If there's no demand, the project may be scrapped. Rather than feeling discouraged, Jest grew more enthused. He responded, I'm sure I would like to start learning from there. I promise I will make time every week on Saturdays. I only have to attend school for one Saturday a month, leaving me plenty of time to visit the office. I will continue to work with the R&D team until they reach a working prototype. Very well then, Abel replied. You can start spending time with them. Since it's a slow process and doesn't require your immediate input, you could shadow the team once or twice a week and learn from other managers in the meantime. Just thought it was a great idea. As they chatted, they reached Abel's car and began driving. Aware that he had tasked John with overseeing Jest's learning process, Abel wondered about their progress. Animatedly, Abel asked Jest, did you go to the upper floors with John to meet other team members? Jest replied, no, instead we had a long discussion sitting in his office. This consumed a lot of time, after which John advised me to take some time off. He suggested I see the cafeteria. I think he had some work, so we didn't go to see anyone else. Just tried to cover up for John. Abel nodded and replied, it was his first day back at work after a long break. I'm sure there must have been some work he wanted to catch up on. Anyways, did he tell you anything about what he wants to do next? Abel inquired. Jest promptly replied with a lot of excitement. Yes, he said he would take me to meet someone called Champ tomorrow. Oh, Champ. This is great, Abel thought, pleased that Jest would be introduced to manufacturing processes starting from the second day. He must have some plan for him. Although Abel wanted Jest to focus solely on learning from the office staff, giving him an introduction to the production facility was a great way to start understanding the business's operations. To see Champ, you will have to drive there. Our production facility is outside of the city and does not have very good public connectivity, Abel explained, expressing his concern. However, Jest clarified that John had advised he would drive him there as he also had some work at the production facility. If he is taking you there, then it is fine. However, as you will be entering a work environment with lots of heavy machinery moving around, you must ensure your safety. Before entering the facility, make sure to ask Champ and John about all the safety instructions and briefings required to stay safe in the production facility. Do you understand? Jest replied positively and assured Abel that he would stay safe and promised to follow all safety regulations. Great, you are all set for tomorrow then. After you are back from your field trip tomorrow, come see me. Yes sir, Jest replied. Abel pulled up the car in front of Jest's house and they both observed the radish glow in the sky, signifying the sun bidding farewell. It was time for Abel and Jest to say goodbye as well. Approaching home from the car, Jest noticed the dark house signaling Bella was still outside. He assumed that Bella must still be busy with the cleanup event with Maya. However, Jest did not dwell on it for long and rushed to his room. He had a lot of notes to make. With all the information in his head, he wanted to preserve it on paper. Jest quickly organized his thoughts and started making notes of each event from his day. After a while, he heard a cracking noise from outside, like someone was trying to open the main door. Swiftly, he stepped out and noticed it was Bella, but she wasn't alone. Another familiar voice accompanied her. As the door swung open, two women entered. Bella and Maya. Oh, what a pleasant surprise, Jest exclaimed, running towards Maya, thrilled to see her. He hadn't expected her visit. Maya looked at Jest with a motherly gaze and replied, Hey there, how are you doing? I came to see you. Jest was curious. How come you two are so late? He asked. Bella replied, We were busy wrapping up the community work. It was a great event, we found over 35 volunteers for today's event. Eventually, everyone sat down to continue discussing their days. Mom, I wish I was also there, I would have loved to help. But I am glad that you two have become close friends now, Jest remarked on the chemistry of the two ladies. Bella replied, Yes, it would have been fun with you there. However, your day at the office was more important. How was your first day? Jest described all the events of his day. As he was describing his day, he mentioned Ovel's name, which changed the expression on Maya's face. She did not know that Jest and Ovel were related somehow. Do you know Ovel? Her expression changed from happiness to a mixture of concern and surprise. Seeing Maya react like this, Bella and Jest both became startled. Maya's expression revealed that something serious was going on in her mind. Yes, he is like a father to Jest, and we are seeing each other, Bella replied. Hearing this, Maya was completely dumbfounded. She realized something, her new friendship might not last long if she told them who she was investigating. But after giving expressions like these, Maya had to explain what was going on in her mind. So, she does, well, I am not sure how to tell this, but Ovel is going to be in big trouble. Maya's generator manufacturing business has been under investigation for environmental misconduct and failure to comply with regulations. Maya revealed, her tone weighted with concern. The words hung heavily in the air, casting a pall over the room. Bella and Jest exchanged worried glances, their minds racing to comprehend the implications of Maya's disclosure. A tense silence enveloped the room, each person grappling with their thoughts in the wake of Maya's revelation. Bella was the first to break the silence, her voice barely above a whisper, what do you mean, Maya? How is Ovel involved in this? Her eyes searched Maya's face for answers, but Maya's expression remained inscrutable, betraying none of her own turmoil. Jest mined world with questions, his heart heavy with the weight of uncertainty. Ovel, a father figure to him, now implicated in a case for environmental misconduct. It seemed unfathomable, yet Maya's words left no room for doubt. He struggled to find his voice amidst the overwhelming tide of emotions crashing over him. Finally, he spoke, I think you are mistaken. I don't think that Ovel could be involved with anything like this. You are a liar or simply confused, Jest's voice wavered with disbelief, his loyalty to Ovel refusing to wane in the face of Maya's accusations. But Maya remained resolute, her demeanor unwavering. My colleague found some evidences that proves otherwise. The evidences were solid and enough to prove him guilty in the court. Moreover, I have heard that some witnesses have also agreed to testify against him, Maya countered, her words cutting through the air like a knife. Although, she withheld the fact that she was the one originally investigating the case. The weight of her statement hung heavily in the room, suffocating the hope that just desperately clung to. The situation was going to get worse with the next few statements from Maya, moreover, there is a court case against him now. Lily, my co-worker, filed an electronic complaint against him yesterday, Maya continued, her words delivering another blow to Jest's disbelief. Bella was equally concerned and with a heavy heart she interjected, but he did not tell us anything about it. Maya explained the situation, he probably doesn't know about the case himself. Today is the first working day of the court after the weekend, as the complaint was registered yesterday. The court will take a few days to analyze the information before sending the summons to the ten businesses under suspicion. Everyone will receive the summons at the same time. It is only a matter of time, the room fell into a heavy silence, the weight of Maya's revelation casting a shadow over their collective thoughts. Neither Bella nor Jest was ready to accept the truth of Maya's claims, the implications too grave to comprehend. And yet, the nagging question lingered, should they confront Ovil and seek the truth, or trust in his innocence despite the mounting evidence against him? This was a news that caught everyone off guard. But how can you be so certain of his guilt? What evidence do you have? Bella pressed Maya, demanding answers. This time, Maya couldn't evade the question. She explained that the investigation report she received detailed allegations of environmental pollution, including the contamination of river bodies with lead, a common component found in paints. Additionally, hazardous materials were reportedly irresponsibly disposed of in a landfill, causing environmental degradation and harm to wildlife in the vicinity. One piece of evidence that stood out was a screenshot of an email exchange with Ovil's supplier, wherein the supplier appeared to agree to circumvent permits and regulatory bodies to deliver raw materials. Furthermore, the same supplier had agreed to testify against Ovil in court. Maya also shared that during her colleague's investigation, she discovered evidence of contamination at the described site. Moreover, the investigator also confronted Ovil directly, and he admitted to having prior knowledge of and collaboration with the witness in question. These are very compelling evidences and enough to put Ovil in jail for two to three years and accompanied with a massive fine. However, soon after the official complaint was registered everyone was abstained from further working on this case due to involvement of accused people with underworld and politicians. Among the ten accused, only Ovil is the one who does not have any prior criminal records. I believe that was the reason why Lily approached Ovil directly. She told me that the next step of her investigation was to analyze the information directly from the company records. But she did not have any alibi in these businesses, and discreetly getting access would have taken a lot of time. Hence, it was a logical decision to file an official complaint with the evidence she had. This way all the businesses would be forced to disclose company information in the court. Although, I personally don't agree with the impulsive step that Lily took. But it was the right move for the time and situation. Neither Jis nor Bella were willing to accept anything Maya told them without seeing evidence firsthand. Ovil's had a clever idea, I can prove his innocence. What if I can bring the evidence and data you need? I have access to his office, and the employees are willing to help. I'm in the perfect position to access whatever information I need. In fact, the timing couldn't be better. I'm going to see the production manager, Champ, tomorrow with John. This was a great opportunity in Maya's head. This might work. Apparently Ovil's generator manufacturing business has the access to the landfill and waterbodies in this city. His other businesses are either digital or located in other cities. Even Destiny seemed to be on her side, pushing her to get to the bottom of this case. Although she was denied working in the field, she could still work on this case from her desk. She still believed that Ovil was guilty. However, she would keep an open mind while investigating. I'm in on this plan. I also want to uncover the truth about this case, Maya said determinedly. Bella did not want to get left behind, chiming in into the discussion she said, I can be your legs. If you want anything done, let me know. The camaraderie and sense of purpose filled the room. Everyone was filled with determination with their own goals to support the case. Suddenly, just spoke, I am not sure what I should do. What information should I be collecting? Maya realized, of course just would not know what information would be useful for the case. He was only a kid but tasked to the most difficult part of the project. She will have to tutor him about the basics and then build up from there. Okay, I will explain what information you should look for. You will have to be very vigilant and observant when finding these details. Sometimes the evidences are hidden in plain sight. Maya knew it couldn't be helped. She will have to train just for his visit to the production facility the next day. Maya started, okay, first, you should know why and how a business can be convicted for environmental negligence. A business can be convicted if it fails to comply with environmental regulations and laws, resulting in harm to the environment or public health. Now, there are many parameters where a business can be held liable like pollution, improper waste disposal, violation of permits and regulations, destruction of habitats, and negligence in cleanup and remediation. These are the pillars that the government wants every business to stand on. However, complying with regulations is often expensive and does not directly relate to profits for the business. Hence, businesses tend to cut corners at the expense of harming the environment. On the other hand, it is important that all businesses comply with these regulations because we have a responsibility towards the environment and other living things. We call it corporate social responsibility. As just carefully listened to Maya's explanation, he found himself nodding in agreement with her points. Maya went on to elaborate, the government sets specific minimum standards that businesses must adhere to, but going beyond these standards can also earn businesses tax concessions. To determine if a business has implemented sustainable practices, there are several places where you can find evidence. Let's break it down step by step, Maya suggested. Since you'll be visiting the production facility and meeting the production manager tomorrow, your first task is to locate the employee handbook. This handbook outlines safety standards, environmental policies, and daily procedures. All new employees receive a copy as part of the onboarding process, but you might not get it as your purpose of visit is different. For the handbook, you must request the production manager if he has any copies handy otherwise you will have to see the HR. Once you have the handbook, you'll need access to the HR portal, Maya continued. There, you can find files detailing environmental sustainability policies issued by HR, as well as the business's mission, vision, and values. Make sure to make copies of each document and email them to your personal email. Sending them to yourself will help avoid raising suspicion. So, that's our plan for tomorrow, Maya concluded. Once we have these documents, I'll guide you on the next steps. Together, we'll uncover the truth. Just then Bella nodded in understanding as Maya laid out the plan. Just couldn't shake the feeling of being a double agent in one of the detective movies he had seen. However, a question lingered in his mind, what if we simply try to ask for the information? Bella intervened, sensing Just's hesitation. I don't think that's a good idea, she cautioned. Ovil doesn't know about the case yet. We shouldn't alarm him by asking directly. It's better if we collect evidence on our own, without drawing attention to ourselves. Maya butted in and said, that is right. Until we find some solid evidence, this will be our little secret. We only have a few days to collect all the relevant evidences. Just and Bella both nodded in agreement. Maya had assumed leadership of the situation with remarkable efficiency, showcasing her expertise in conducting investigations through her clear directions. Her ability to swiftly analyze the information and devise a strategy was evident to Just and Bella, leaving them with no choice but to trust and follow Maya's lead on the case. Engrossed in their discussions, the trio lost track of time, only realizing when it was already 8.30 and pitch black outside. Observing the late hour, Maya expressed her desire to depart and head back home, prompting Bella to serve dinner. With hurried dinner, Maya bid farewell to everyone and left the house, promising to return the following day to check on Just's progress in gathering the required information. The next morning, Just awoke with a newfound sense of purpose and determination. From here, his learning journey was not only for his benefit but also a mission to support and exonerate his mentor, Ovil. With a resolve to do whatever it took to clear Ovil's name, Just arrived at the office promptly, awaiting John's arrival in the reception area. As Just waited, the office remained quiet, as most activities typically commenced at 9. However, the warehouse team was already present in the office, signaling the start of their day. The time passed 8.37, seven minutes more than the meeting time. He couldn't shake the thought that John might have forgotten about picking him up. His musings were interrupted as the doors of the building swung open, and John finally made his entrance. As always, John appeared impeccably dressed in his royal blue business suit, the fabric exuding an air of sophistication, paired with polished black shoes that crackled against the white marble floor with each step. Spotting Just waiting in the reception area, John made his way over with an apologetic tone. Sorry for the delay, John began, his voice sincere. Hope you haven't been waiting too long. I got stuck on the way here due to traffic. Although it had only been a seven-minute wait, time seemed to drag for Just, who had nothing to occupy himself with during the idle moments. No problem, Just replied, trying to mask his impatience with a polite smile. Noticing Just's notebook, John nodded approvingly. Ah, good to see you're prepared. Always nice to have a handy notebook for taking notes. Just felt a surge of confidence knowing he had his notebook and mobile phone on hand, ready to document any important information or insights. Ready to head out? John asked, his tone brimming with anticipation. We'll be back close to the end of the day today. Just nodded eagerly, his excitement palpable. I'm ready, he replied, his voice tinged with enthusiasm. Despite the weight of the task ahead, playing the role of a double agent, tasked with finding evidence, Just didn't falter. Instead, he welcomed the challenge with open arms, his heart pounding with a mix of nervousness and determination. As they walked towards John's car, which was conveniently parked right next to the office entrance in the visitor's parking lot, they engaged in casual conversation. It was a short stroll, and soon they were seated comfortably inside the car. John started the engine, and as they pulled out of the parking lot, he turned to Just with a curious expression. So, how was your day yesterday? John inquired, his tone friendly. Did you enjoy your first day at the office? Just replied with a smile, affirming that he indeed enjoyed his first day at office. Further, he also revealed that he worked late last night working on planning and strategizing for the day at the production plant. Then, with a hint of curiosity in his voice, Just posed a question that caught John off guard. You mentioned yesterday that leaders are like dogs and the sheep herd, Just began, his words thoughtful. They manage the herd, but the sheep don't mix in with them. Do all leaders have to be alone? John was taken aback by the depth of Just's question. He recognized Just's keen listening skills, an essential trait for success. Instead of providing a straightforward answer, John decided to delve deeper into Just's perspective. Why do you think that? John inquired, intrigued. Have you encountered someone who is not like that? Just recalled the events of the previous day when Maya had assumed control of the situation, orchestrating the entire affair with precision. He vividly remembered how she had led the discussion, with both him and Bella assisting her every step of the way. Reflecting on this, Just couldn't imagine Maya being alone, she had clearly demonstrated leadership qualities during their encounter. Turning to John, Just recounted the incident. Yes, I met someone yesterday, Just began, his voice reflecting his certainty. She's a friend of my mom. Yesterday, she took the lead and efficiently devised a clever plan for a future event that we are planning. I'm sure she was a leader in that moment when she took charge. John paused for a moment, pondering Just's question before responding. Hmm, he murmured thoughtfully, gathering his thoughts. Yes, your mother's friend certainly displayed leadership qualities when she took control of the situation. However, there's a distinction between taking the lead in a specific instance and holding a formal leadership role. He continued, explaining the dynamics of leadership within personal relationships compared to those within the corporate world. Among friends and family, leadership roles can shift depending on the circumstances. Today, your mother's friend took charge, but next time it could be your mom or even you. It's based on friendship and mutual trust. In contrast, in the corporate world, leadership is more fixed. Your boss remains your boss until there's a significant change in roles or companies. If you consider the same example from yesterday, a sheepdog will never become a sheep, and a sheep can never take on the responsibility of a sheepdog. Your boss remains separate from the rest of the team. You're the leader of the pack, guiding and directing the group from a higher vantage point. Just contemplated John's explanation, recognizing there are many psychological insights hidden in this simple explanation. His thoughts drifted to a story his mother told him about when she used to work for a large corporation. She had dedicated many years to her job and hoped for a promotion when a position opened up, given her extensive experience. However, her application was overlooked, and the role was filled by an outsider with no prior knowledge of the position. As John's words resonated with him, just began to understand the rationale behind this decision. Remaining in the same position for an extended period had integrated his mother into the fabric of the organization, akin to becoming one of the sheep within the herd. In such cases, accepting a fellow sheep as the leader might not be perceived favorably. Instead, an outsider, akin to a sheepdog, might be viewed as impartial by the rest of the herd, making their leadership more readily accepted. John continued, explaining that internal promotions were not uncommon but were often not the preferred route. Just learned something interesting about human nature today. Unsure of how he might apply this newfound knowledge, he made a mental note to revisit it later. Engaging in casual conversations, they continued their journey. Eventually, they arrived at the production facility, situated on the outskirts of the city. Surrounded by sparse neighboring buildings in some distance, it stood in relative isolation. Just speculated that perhaps the location of the production facility was strategically chosen considering the affordability of the land and proximity to the city. Stepping out of the car alongside John, just marveled at the breathtaking scenery enveloping the facility. Mountains loomed in the distance, a river flowed nearby, and a towering windmill adorned one side. Wait a minute, a windmill is used to generate green electricity. Just mind buzzed. He quickly took out his phone and took a picture for evidence. Seeing just take pictures, John called out to him. He stood at the main entrance of the building signaling that it was time to proceed forward. Getting closer to the main entrance door, just couldn't help but notice the enormous metal door and a checkpoint right next to the entrance. Some security guards were waiting to check their IDs and inquire about the reason for the visit. Going through the checkpoint, they both entered the premises. To just surprise, it was not a single exclusive structure, but it was like another city inside. A city because it had walkways, a park in the middle, street lamps, and road signs commonly seen on the city roads outside. Seeing this, a sense of anticipation washed over just, anticipation of all the new things that he would discover in this completely new environment. John began to elaborate on the intricacies of the facility, delineating its multifaceted layout. Each of these buildings serves a distinct purpose in the manufacturing process, he explained. Most of the parts of the generator are manufactured in-house. Each building in this facility is dedicated to the different disciplines of engineering. This entire complex is 100,000 square feet area that serves all needs, as you will learn today. Gesturing towards the gate they had passed upon arrival, John clarified its role as the security checkpoint. No vehicles are allowed beyond this point. Only authorized vehicles with special permissions can enter from here. Usually, we only allow our own trucks to pass through these gates. Just found himself captivated by the sheer magnitude of the production facility sprawled out before him. Eager to learn more, he posed a question to John. Do you exclusively manufacture generators in this facility? John nodded in response. Primarily, yes. Generators constitute the largest portion of our sales, making up 40-45% of OVIL's total portfolio. He paused, offering insight into the facility's versatility. However, we also produce other electronic products such as transformers for the city grid system, regulators, and wires. Demand for these items varies, so we only manufacture them upon receiving orders. Wires, however, enjoy consistent demand. Consequently, we produce wires in-house for both our internal needs and external sales. John aimed to simplify the technicalities for Just's understanding. Are you familiar with the various manufacturing and engineering disciplines? He inquired. Just admitted his lack of knowledge on the subject, expressing his eagerness to learn. John proceeded to enlighten him. In the realm of engineering, you'll find distinct categories such as chemical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering, which were the core disciplines until recently. Now, computer science engineering has also joined the ranks. Additionally, there are specialized fields like aeronautical, automotive, and biomedical engineering. He then tailored the explanation to their context. Considering our operations, we primarily engage with three main categories within the manufacturing division. First, soft IT engineering handles tasks like coding, software development, database management, and cybersecurity. Next, manufacturing engineering oversees production planning, quality control, supply chain management, and material science. Finally, design engineering focuses on research, conceptualization, and mechanical and structural design. Among other tasks, John emphasized the interconnectedness of these fields for optimal results. As they conversed, they arrived in front of the first building, resembling a typical office structure. John identified it as Champ's office, adding that he occasionally used the space too. Upon entering, just beheld a spacious area with employees at their desks and additional rooms in the back. The size of the working space was twice the size of Bella's Cafe, with various individuals diligently working. John pointed towards his office and later pointed to Champ's office, leading the way to the latter. Inside were two desks arranged at an angle. Upon entering, John commenced the introductions. Hi Champ, how are you doing today? John greeted, turning to Champ with a friendly smile. This is Just, joining us as we discussed yesterday, he said, motioning towards Just. And this is the infamous Champ that we have talked about for so long. Champ returned John's warm greeting as they stood facing each other across the desk, his expression genial. Good morning, John. It's wonderful to see you again after all this time. I hope you enjoyed your holidays and now ready to get back to work, Champ replied, his tone friendly and welcoming. He then turned to Just, extending a hand. Welcome, Just. It's a pleasure to have you here with us. Just returned Champ's handshake with a firm grip and a friendly smile. Thank you, Champ. I'm excited to be here and looking forward to learning from you. Noticing Just's humble response, Champ replied, thank you, Just. I'm glad to hear that. It will be my pleasure to show you around the production facility. Champ and John shared a brief glance with each other. Champ understood that John had upcoming work that he had to attend to. So, he continued by saying, I have already cleared up my schedule for you. If you are ready, we can commence our tour right now. Right after, John chimed in stating, I have some important work coming up. I will let you two have fun with the tour. I will be in my office room next door. Just, come and see me once you are done. Let's get started, Champ said with a smile, leading Just outside to where the operations team was hard at work. The office buzzed with activity, employees focused on their tasks as Champ explained, This is the heart of our operations, where we regulate workflow and ensure smooth manufacturing processes. Allow me to introduce you to everyone. Champ began the introductions with a sense of pride, emphasizing the dedication and expertise of each team member. First, he introduced Ms. Rebecca Carter, the production planner and scheduler, whose meticulous attention to detail ensured the seamless coordination of production activities. Rebecca greeted Just warmly, her enthusiasm evident as she explained the intricacies of her role in aligning production schedules with demand forecasts and resource availability.