Written by Nandi Tshabalala, 4th Durban Springbok Scout (KZN)

Achieving my Springbok badge was the most rewarding achievement I have ever worked for because I did not only finish with the status of a Springbok Scout, but also became a better, stronger version of myself.

This journey challenged me in so many ways, from budgeting a banquet for 30 people, to changing the foul-smelling nappies of infants for community service! I managed to plan and implement a 40+ hour community service project, cook a 3 course meal for 30 people,  plan and run 3 day outdoors camp , organised a 30km hike in the Berg and more in 4 months,! Something that I never thought I could do. I learned that you can do anything you put your mind to, but you have to trust yourself first, you have to believe you can and you will, even if it takes blood, sweat, and tears.

Navigating around the pandemic, grade 11 final exams, starting matric, extra-curricular activities and my Springbok was the most challenging thing I have ever done. But, receiving support from previous Springbok Scouts, my Troop Scouter and my parents, gave me the will power to push through and come out victorious. Along my Scouting journey I fell in love with volunteering, developed an appreciation for the beautiful nature around us and made unlikely friendships for life.

I am who I am because of the Scouting Movement. I am forever grateful for it and I will live by its values for the rest of my life because once a Scout, always a Scout.