Written by Gontse Malatji, SSA Youth Influencer
In Gauteng, SCOUTS South Africa and the Department of Social Development have been partnering to offer Scouting to young boys. The Scout programme helps them become confident, and skilled leaders, who can build stronger and healthier communities. DSD Scout Groups can be found around Gauteng. Recently, a new Group was established in the Tsakane community.
Tumelo Letlotlo is the Troop Scouter of the recently formed DSD Motheo Scout Group in Tsakane. Scouting is not new to him. “It was in 1994, I was in Grade 3 at Lebone Primary School, when I joined the Scout Movement. Scouting changed my life for the better. It kept me away from all the toxic pandemics our society was facing then and currently. It taught me discipline, courage, and bravery. Camping and pioneering were my favourite activities as we got to learn anything and everything about life and Scouting without any distractions. I had to leave Scouting in 2008, but earlier this year was introduced to the DSD Scouting project, and we started the DSD Motheo Scouts Group”, he explains.
“I decided to return to Scouting as Troop Scouter because of where I stay. Our community is facing so many pandemics such as drug abuse, alcohol abuse cases, and poverty. A lot of facilities are worn out, there are no activities anymore for young people like there were when I grew up. So, I needed to step up and play a role”, continues Tumelo. “As a Scout I learnt survival skills, because in life I went through difficulties but as you know a Scout whistles and smiles under all difficulties. I managed to get out of depressing situations without any harm. I want to give kids in my community that chance too. I can say that Scouting is the way for them. Especially looking back. A lot of my friends who I grew up as Scouts have turned out to be great citizens. When I saw that such initiatives have disappeared in our township, I had to bring it back as it played a magnificent role in our society back in the days and also as it’s my wish to build a conducive environment for these kids to grow in.”
“The day we opened the Group I was so happy to see everyone present before me and could not wait to know each and every new Scout. We did an introduction that included the Scout Promise, Motto and Law, played some games and distributed application forms. Since then, we have welcomed 20 boys to the Group! Our Scouts are fast learners. At the end of April we went on a 2,5k hike and we are now preparing ourselves to join the Gauteng Kontiki this weekend. We are looking forward to it.
If our Scout Group can get more local support, then it will be easier to influence the society to let their kids join such great initiative. We have to make sure we have activities that will draw attention in the community from time to time and make sure the kids in the Movement achieve greatness within Scouting for them to inspire others..” he adds smiling.