By Nandi Tshabalala, SSA Youth Influencer
Photo: Rocco Olivier
Earlier this year KwaZulu-Natal hosted a vibrant “Regional National Challenge Day” under the theme “My Heritage”. The event, which was run by Kayle Ormshaw RTC Better World Framework for KZN, brought together the two Scouting channels to celebrate and share their diverse heritage.
“Meerkats, Cubs, Scouts, Rovers, and Adult volunteers came together to not only learn about heritage and our vibrant cultures, but also to share their cultures with their Scouting family. As the rainbow nation we are a melting pot of cultures, and the aim of the event was to celebrate those together. I do believe it’s important for us as Scouts to celebrate our varied cultures and differences, because they make us who we are”, explains Kayle.
“This was one of the biggest combined events we have had in years, with over 175 participants”, he adds with a smile. “It was heartwarming to see how Scouters from all branches and around the Region all came together to make this Heritage event a success. Everyone did their part to make the day run beautifully.
On the day, most of the participants arrived in traditional cultural attire, setting the tone for a celebration of diversity. We had multiple activity bases run by Rovers and Scouters, where the children explored various aspects of South African heritage while completing some of the requirements for the National Challenge”, continues Kayle. “The bases included theory and games that allowed them to learn more about each other. At one base the kids sat down and shared stories about their cultures, another base allowed them to greet each other in various languages, and at another they were able to create art and make trinkets that represented their heritage.”
In true South Africa fashion, song and dance were also a key part of the day. “There was a base where they got to use every-day object to make music. My personal highlights were the performances by Indian and isiZulu cultural dancers. During the performances Meerkats, Cubs, and Scouts got to join in and learn some of the moves. 1st Port Natal Sea Scouts’ Pack Scouter Renalda also taught the kids dances from her Afrikaans cultural background. She showed them how to “Sokkie” and shared some history around the music and dance. Sharing these musical moments with each other really brought the day to life!”
Photo: Rocco Olivier
Scouting volunteer and Rover Romy Timmer agreed. “It was the first time I’ve personally felt united with different cultures in the Scouting world in such a well-planned and jovial environment.”
The day ended with a Regional picnic. ”It was a truly beautiful day of togetherness, celebrating the richness of South Africa’s rainbow nation. Our Scouts also got to see the size of Scouting in our Region. Mostly we operate in our Groups, and the event made it possible for the kids to see that they are part of a big Movement. It was so eye-opening to see how everyone came together. Everyone got along, everyone was there for Scouts – to be Scouts.
This was a team effort and to all the Scouters and Rovers that helped at the event I would like to say the biggest thank you possible! See you all next year again!”