Written by Innocent Zulu, SSA Youth Influencer

Since 2000 SCOUTS South Africa has been open for all, and regardless of your gender, everyone gets the same opportunities for growth and development. Earlier this year the Mpumalanga Region hosted their Patrol Leaders Training Course PLTC. SSA Youth Influencer Innocent spoke to – then- Patrol Leader Siphokazi Singwayo from the Inyamazane Scouting District about her own leadership journey through Scouting. Siphokazi will soon join the Rovers.

“As a young Scout I had always been fascinated by the qualities of a good leader. I believed that a dynamic leader should embody transparency, discipline, and good communication skills. Most importantly, a leader should follow the Scout Promise and Law, leading by example and doing things practically, not just verbally”, says Siphokazi confidently.

“One of my greatest challenges as a Patrol Leader has been handling difficult team members or conflicts within my Patrol. I’ve learned that it’s essential to remain calm and composed, addressing issues with discipline and respect. By following the Scout Promise and Law, I have been able to resolve conflicts and maintain harmony within my team. Sometimes, it’s better to ignore certain behaviors to avoid escalating the situation.

I recall a time when my Patrol and I were given a task to complete within a tight deadline. We worked together seamlessly, communicating effectively and dividing tasks among ourselves. Our teamwork and communication skills enabled us to finish the task on time, and we were proud of our achievement! Effective communication is crucial in any team. I ensure that everyone has a chance to speak and be heard, using simple language and definitions that everyone can understand. Once I faced a problem with stubbornness and attitudes within my Troop. I gathered my team and had an open discussion about the issues, listening to their concerns and addressing the problem calmly. Communication was the key to resolving the issue.

As a Patrol Leader, my goal is to grow our Troop and have more serious members. I plan to achieve this by participating in camps and activities, obeying the Scout Law, and living by the Promise. I delegate tasks and responsibilities within my Patrol, choosing individuals based on their hard work, commitment, and responsibility. One of our most successful events was the summer camp, where we ensured safety, managed time effectively, and planned educational activities. Every detail was well thought out, and the experience was invaluable.

Through the PLTC, I gained leadership skills, communication skills, and teamwork skills. I plan to apply these skills by being transparent, communicating effectively, and working collaboratively with my team. As a Patrol Leader, I believe I will grow as a person and as a Scout, developing my ability to understand and work with different types of people.

I’m aware of the challenges that lie ahead, including teamwork, slow learners, stubbornness, and attitudes. I’ll address these challenges by teaching my team the importance of teamwork, ignoring negative comments, and communicating effectively to resolve issues. I’ll also be patient and accommodating to ensure that everyone learns and grows.”