Lerato Nthoane, a vibrant 17-year-old Scout from the 1st Montshioa Troop in Mahikeng, has been selected to represent both Mahikeng and the North West Region. He will be part of the South African contingent attending the 25th World Scout Jamboree, scheduled in South Korea from August 1 to 12th, 2023.
The Korea Scout Association in Saemangeum, North Jeolla, South Korea, will host the 25th World Scout Jamboree. The theme "Draw Your Dream" aims to empower Scout Movement members to transform the jamboree into their unique festival and foster personal growth and ambition.
This global gathering is expected to attract an impressive 30,000 to 50,000 participants. The attendees will include youth participants aged 14 to 18 years and adult volunteers serving as Adult Leaders, Contingent Management Team members, and International Service Team members.
Lerato, a vibrant young man, was born in Vryburg and raised in Mafikeng. He joined the Scout movement in June 2021 during the Beke le Beke Recruitment Drive, where he quickly grasped the essence of scouting, which emphasizes learning through action.
"Inspired by my aunties in 2017, I decided to explore what scouting is all about, and I instantly fell in love with it," said Lerato.
Despite his young age and being in Grade 11 at Letsatsing Science High School, Lerato strives to achieve the highest honour in scouting, the "Springbok Badge."
The Springbok Award holds the same prestige as the Queen's Scout in the UK and the Eagle Scout in America. To earn this accolade, Lerato must fulfil several requirements, including dedicating a minimum of 40 hours to community service, leading a hike spanning over 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) in unfamiliar terrain, and designing and constructing a pioneering project.
Lerato's dedication, hard work, and commitment to serving his community and embracing scouting values have led him to this remarkable opportunity.
Lerato says scouting has had a profound impact on him.
It has equipped him with management and leadership skills and numerous other abilities applicable to my day-to-day life. I have learned the value of teamwork and gained insight into the effort involved in organizing and planning events. My passion and enthusiasm in scouts have made me undertake several community services projects in Mahikeng, shaping my character.”
"During the Rata Mahikeng campaign launch, we cleaned the Mahikeng Traffic Department and Montshioa Cultural Village. Scouting has already shaped my conservation career," he said.
Lerato sees the upcoming trip as an opportunity for leadership, adventure, and the exchange of scouting knowledge.
"I am excited to join scouts from across the world, fostering brotherhood with them," expressed Lerato.
In support of Lerato on his journey, a parade was held in his honour on Friday, May 26, 2023, at Letsatsing Science School. This event aimed to raise funds for his expenses before his departure, enabling him to represent his community and country with pride at the international scouting event.
