This year’s Eastern Cape Kon-Tiki was something truly special! For the first time ever, all 4 Scout branches and every Scout Group in the Region was represented in the rafting competition that took place at Van Stadens Resort in Geberha earlier this month.  “Over 210 youth,  ranging from our youngest Meerkats to our most experienced Rovers, came together for a weekend ‘Under the Sea’ at Kon-Tiki”, says event organiser and youth influencer Caroline Boshoff. “It was more than just fun; it was history in the making!”

“The spirit of Scouting was alive in every smile, every cheer and every helping hand. You could feel the unity. You could see the joy. And you knew, this was what Scouting is all about” continues Caroline. “To celebrate this milestone, seven brand-new trophies were created for the occasion. These weren’t just awards. They were symbols of growth,  of pride, and of a new chapter for Eastern Cape South Scouting. We were also very honoured to welcome our Chief Commissioner, Gary Pienaar, to the event once again.  He saw and experienced firsthand what it looks like when youth take the lead, live the promise, and support one another.”

“In line with our theme  our Meerkats went on a playful hunt to find Ollie the Octopus, while the Cubs brought bikini bottoms to life with jellyfish catching and an intense ‘Krabby Patty’ cook-off! In the meantime the Scouts and Rovers stepped into the world of Atlantis to build their rafts and release them on the water, solve challenges, and bring their adventure spirits to life despite the rainy start to the morning on Saturday.

Later in the day the weather cleared and the raft race went ahead with full force! On shore, Scouts various fun and educational activities were held where the children and youth could have some water fun, while signing off interest badges, and most importantly,  support their team mates in completing the tasks together. The energy was buzzing on the campsite! Everyone had a role, and every role mattered!”, she adds with a smile.

“Although our theme was ‘Under the Sea’, we ended our Kon-Tiki under the stars with a campfire filled with songs, stories, laughter, the announcement of the Kon-Tiki winners, and our Regional Awards. It reminded us of the journey behind each badge, the friendships formed, and the leaders who walk beside our youth every step of the way.

And yes, the trophies went home with the winning Dens, Packs, Patrols, and Crew. But the real victory was the spirit of Scouting that was alive in every moment. From the little Meerkat cheering on the sidelines, to the Rover guiding a nervous Scout, this weekend was a living impact story of what happens when we come together with purpose.”

Eastern Cape Regional Commissioner Neil O’Brien agreed and added: “The 2025 Kontiki event was an extraordinary gathering for our Region, showcasing representation from every District and all four branches. The Alumni who attended were no doubt nostalgic seeing all the activity. This was our first event with the Listening Ear, a role we look forward to developing further. We were also fortunate to have our Chief Commissioner Gary Pienaar attend. Participants displayed remarkable Scouting spirit, maintaining positivity and resilience even under challenging weather conditions at the beginning of the event. Their perseverance was rewarded as the weather cleared, providing ideal conditions for the remainder of the activities. Organised chiefly by our Rovers and young leaders, the event highlighted their leadership capabilities and the continued development and progress of our Region.
A big thank you to Algoa Sea Scouts, Caroline Boshoff, Morgan Schroder, Megan Mudie, Siphelo Plaatjies, Norman Visser, Mariechen Boshoff, Kendyl Schroder, and Cheryl Schroder⚜️ – and the rest of their team – for all their efforts!”

Kon-Tiki 2025 wasn’t just an event. It was a movement. It was a memory. It was Scouting at its best. #scoutssa