Written by Zama Mazibuko and Andrea de Lange

“Achieving the BP Award has been a long and transformative journey, one that has shaped me in ways I never imagined when I first started Scouts.”, explains Rover Andrea de Lange. “Looking back, there wasn’t just one thing that inspired me to pursue this award; there were multiple moments that built up over time. When I was younger, I wasn’t particularly badge-driven, but occasionally, I would feel the spark to achieve something big. It was only as I grew older that I decided I wanted to complete the BP Award.

A significant reason for this decision was that I had started Scouts later than most, so I never got the opportunity to achieve my Springbok Award. That became my motivation: to complete my BP and prove to myself that I could.

The expedition was, without a doubt, one of the most challenging aspects of this journey. Deciding where to go and getting participants together was no easy feat. I wanted something unique—an experience that wasn’t centered around large groups but instead focused on reconnecting with nature. As Scouts and Rovers, we spend so much time giving back to others, which is vital, but I wanted this experience to also give back to Mother Nature.

The idea behind my expedition was to provide Rovers with an opportunity to unwind and disconnect. We often get so caught up in the busyness of life—planning the next thing, analysing the past—that we forget to simply exist in the present. I wanted the expedition to be a time for reflection, recharging, and connecting with nature. Additionally, it was important to me to share knowledge about Mother Nature, with the hope that participants would carry that understanding forward and maybe even pass it on to the Scouts they work with.

The BP Award journey has also been one of immense personal growth. Over the years, I’ve developed skills that I never thought I would master. Early on, I stepped into a leadership role when the chairpersons of my Crew, Matthew and Robert, left to follow their life goals and dreams—Matthew joining the Air Force and Robert becoming deeply involved in baseball and tournaments. With both of them moving on, I had to adapt quickly, taking on the responsibility of leading a Crew of Rovers. It was a steep learning curve, but it taught me so much about collaboration, delegation, and knowing when to step back and let others lead.

I’ll admit, when I was younger, I was often bossy and wanted to control everything. But through my Scouting journey—especially the leadership courses and training like PLTU—I learned that true leadership isn’t about control. It’s about giving others the space to grow. My preferred approach now is to step back and allow others to take charge, even if it means they might stumble. I’ve seen how those moments of struggle often lead to the greatest growth.

This journey has also honed my time management, organisational, and administrative skills. From planning events to running my Crew, I’ve learned how to handle the practical aspects of leadership while balancing the human side of guiding and inspiring others.

I couldn’t have done this alone. My support network has been instrumental in helping me reach this milestone. Every person—whether they offered words of encouragement, helped with tasks, or simply showed up—has played a part. My family has been my rock throughout, especially during moments when I wanted to give up. My mom, in particular, pushed me to keep going when I felt like quitting, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.

One person who has been my biggest supporter throughout this journey is my partner, Trevor. He has been there through every challenge and success, always encouraging me and reminding me why this goal was important. Whether it was through words of reassurance, helping me brainstorm ideas, or just being a steady presence when things felt overwhelming, Trevor’s support has meant the world to me.

I also have to mention the incredible support from 58th Durban Air Scouts. The leaders, Scouts, and the families within the Troop played such a massive role in helping me achieve my BP Award. There were so many friends and fellow Scouts from 58th who supported me, motivated me, and walked alongside me on this journey. It’s impossible to name every single person who made an impact, but I want them all to know that I deeply appreciate them. Their encouragement, guidance, and belief in me made all the difference.

Achieving the BP Award is a reminder of what we can accomplish with determination and the support of those around us. It’s also a reflection of the impact of Scouting—the growth, development, and positive change it brings, not just to individuals like me but to the communities we serve.

My hope is that my journey will inspire others to take on their own challenges and pursue their goals, no matter how daunting they may seem. To anyone considering the BP Award or facing obstacles in their Scouting journey, my message is simple: keep going. Even when the path feels overwhelming, the rewards are worth it. The experiences, lessons, and connections you gain along the way will stay with you for a lifetime.

This Award isn’t just a personal achievement—it’s a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the spirit of Scouting.