The 3rd Bonteheuwel Scout group is growing phenomenally since its launch two months ago.
A number of investiture ceremonies have been held since June, and the requests to join the scouts continue to stream in. So far, the group has a total of 78 scouts and cubs.
Leander Thielman, the district commissioner of the Bonteheuwel, Elsies River, Bishop Lavis, Belville South, Matroosfontein, and Belhar district, led proceedings at the latest induction ceremony.
Mr Thielman said the ceremony was very important to them, as they pledged to do their best for God and the country. The new recruits were also expected to know the 10 scout laws. The 3rd Bonteheuwel Scouts were also given their yellow and blue colours. Mr Thielman explained that no two scout groups shared the same colours.
“The scouts prepares our children for the future, as it teaches them leadership skills, and it helps them to develop mentally, spiritually, and physically, so they can take up their rightful place in society. Everyone is aiming for a Springbok Scout badge, but for this, you must follow an advancement programme. The scouts is the biggest youth programme in the world, with 41 million members,” Mr Thielman said.
Rehana Karriem’s two children joined the scouts, and she could not be prouder.
“My daughter, Shaakirah Martin, who is 13 years old, was invested a few weeks ago, and now my son, Taariq Martin, who is 15, is being invested as well. I know it’s going to make a positive change in their lives. They are both so excited to explore new things and to meet people. God-willing, I’m sure they will experience a lot of new adventures and that doors will be opened for them,” Ms Karriem said.