Written by Caroline Boshoff, SSA Youth Influencer

This month we are highlighting some of our amazing women in Scouting. Saint Mary’s DCC Troop Scouter Ms Nosipho Moyikwa has been building confidence through Scouting for nearly 6 years.

In 2019, Nosipho Moyikwa was training as a Social Auxiliary at St Mary’s Development and Care Centre (DCC) when she first encountered Scouts. “Every Thursday, student volunteers from Rhodes University would lead the Cub programme. I was drawn to the life skills, the outdoor education, and the strong sense of belonging the children found. I could see how Scouts was helping kids overcome challenges in their community,” recalls Nosipho.

“Starting out, I often led meetings alone and felt underprepared. But, knowing I could lean on our Scout Group Leader and Group founder Anna Talbot Kinsler and on Centre staff for guidance, helped me persevere. Their trust and support helped me grow in confidence and skill.”

As someone living with a disability, Nosipho feels Scouting taught her that nothing can stop her from achieving her dreams or serving her community. “My proudest moment came during the 2021 River Rescue campaign. It showed me the power of caring for our environment, and in the process I earned my Warrant as Saint Mary’s DCC Troop Scouter. I also really enjoyed the spirit, the unity, and meeting new people at the Eastern Cape Kontiki”, she continues.

Many of us love our badges so we asked her if she has some badges she is proud of. “My favourite badges are those that reflect community service projects. I believe that small acts of kindness teach Cubs that they can make a real difference. My Troop’s steady growth means the world to me. Watching children learn new skills and seeing their pride makes me smile every day,” she says. “I also draw strength from my Regional Commissioner, Mr Neil O’Brien, and the East London Troop Scouters. They remind me that it’s never too late to start over.”

When asked what advice she has for young women in Scouting, she says: ”Believe in yourself. Keep going until you see the light. Women can lead change if given the chance!” This is advice she applies in her own life too as she supports social auxiliary students in gaining confidence and leadership, proof that Scouts builds life skills.
To Nosipho, being a woman in her community means serving quietly but powerfully. It means giving children role models and a place to belong – courageously.