Limpopo KDT196 Scout Khanyisa Mabunda recently achieved her Springbok Award. Growing up in the small village of Sasekani, Khanyisa was a child full of energy but lacked direction. She often acted impulsively, ignoring the consequences of her actions. But everything changed when she joined SCOUTS South Africa through Keep The Dream 196 at age 11.
“I was in Grade 5 and on Thursdays I would see mum Rose run programmes with learners at school. I was curious about what they were doing and thought it was just a hobby. So, I joined 1st Sasekani Scouts and soon I started loving it! I really grew into Scouting”, explains Khanyisa with a smile.
“After 8 years of Scouting, I have experience in problem solving, leadership, First Aid, and mostly I am resilient. Through Scouting I have the capacity to withstand and adapt in more difficult situations.
Some of my favourite memories include the activities we did like camps, hikes and community service projects. I love campfire time! It is a moment for us all to connect with each other. The warmth, the dancing and singing, we are united in having fun. I also really like the vibe of going on hikes. Being outdoors, being adventurous and seeing things around us with your Scouting friends. It’s so important to have fun in Scouting as it brings people together and helps reduce stress as it can be very calming. It does not matter what is happening at home or school, when in Scouting you get a time to settle, to share stories, to connect and learn with other people.”
Being in Scouting provided Khanyisa with structure, discipline, and a strong moral compass. “Since joining Scouting I have changed a lot. I used to be a bully. I was Yoh! I had no respect for myself or for others. I was a very rude child. Since becoming a Scout I have learned to be more respectful, to care about others. I am a leader now, a better person and a good version of myself! I enjoy being a leader and leading by example. Being able to be a role model in another child’s life teaches you how to help others and not only deal with yourself.”
Guided by the Scout Leaders of KTD196, Khanyisa was able to overcome the challenges on her path and achieve her Springbok Award. “I feel amazing that I was able to get my Springbok!”, she says with a smile. “I did get a lot of help. First from mum Rose. But when she passed, Elizabeth Mabuza stepped in to help me. I am so grateful to her. She was a pillar of strength and a true inspiration. For my Springbok I did my community service project at a community centre where we helped them clean, cook and serve food to the children in the centre. We also helped them after school with activities. It felt really good to be able to give back. My Springbok hike was in Westfalia. We saw so many animals and discovered waterfalls! The beauty we saw there I will remember forever.
I think any Scout can achieve their Springbok, but it requires a plan, determination and you need to be willing to work and persevere. You need to tell yourself “I will do it” and not give up when it gets tough, because it’s not easy but it is so worth it! I’ve grown, I’ve gained so many new skills, I understand and can follow safety guides, I can communicate clearly, and I can live by the Scout principles every day!”
Through Scouting Khanyisa has grown into a compassionate leader, driven to make a positive impact. She is pursuing a career in nursing—a choice inspired by her journey through Scouts and her desire to help others. Khanyisa’s story is a testament to the life-changing impact of SCOUTS South Africa’s programmes and the team at KDT196.