Kwa-Thema – Twenty-one enthusiastic scouts from Unified Scout Group, based in Kwa-Thema, gathered on August 11 at Tuin van Eden Camping Grounds in Heidelberg for an unforgettable scout advancement badge camp.
The camp aimed to provide a supportive environment for scouts to work towards their traveller and discoverer advancement badges, while advancing in their ranks, developing new skills, strengthening their bonds with fellow troop and patrol members, and developing essential skills for life.
“The advancement badge camp really set the bar high especially since it was the first time for most of our scouts to experience the real out-of-doors.
“It was experiential for each scout. Some of the camp highlights included expert-led workshops on mapping, backpacking, outdoor skills, and leadership from a former South African National Defence Force (SANDF) major.
“There were opportunities to complete scoutcraft and interest badge requirements, team-building activities and games promoting camaraderie and problem-solving. There were also inspiring campfire programmes and guest speakers,” said scout group leader Tebogo Rakgabyane.
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Rakgabyane said one of the scouts, Reabetswe Motau overcame challenges to earn his discoverer advancement badge and he will now embark on his first class journey in the coming months.
“Another scout, Kganya Modisane showcased exceptional leadership skills and she was bold enough to take on the challenge of being the first one in the history of the group to attempt the diversity awareness challenge badge.
“She presented her findings to the whole troop during the campfire in a form of an interactive discussion on LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, queer, and intersex) and racial stereotypes,” Rakgabyane said.
Rakgabyane further added that 20 scouts completed their traveler advancement badge while Motau advanced to the rank of troop leader.
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He added that the camp was a reminder that scouting is not just about achieving ranks or earning badges, but about fostering a sense of belonging, empathy, and social responsibility.
He further mentioned that he was impressed by the scouts’ enthusiasm and dedication to their personal growth, and the support they offered to one another throughout the camp.
“As a leader, it is humbling to see the trust and respect that scouts place in us, and the responsibility that comes with guiding them on their scouting journey,” he added.
Rakgabyane cited that the camp reinforced the importance of adaptability and flexibility in leadership, as they navigated unexpected challenges and made adjustments to ensure the scouts’ experience was optimal.
“The camp was a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that scouting can have on young lives, and the role that leaders play in shaping the next generation of leaders and citizens,” he cited.
