SCOUTS South Africa proudly supports Zamangwe Mazibuko as Candidate Youth Advisor to the Africa Scout Committee. Here is her Vision for Scouting in Africa and her Manifesto as Candidate Youth Advisor.

My Vision:

Scouting is more than a uniform or a badge, it is a way of becoming. It is a space where many of us, including myself, found belonging, purpose and voice. I envision a continent where the power and potential of every Scout is realised, regardless of background, identity or geography. A continent where the diversity of youth isn’t managed, but embraced as a source of innovation, compassion and leadership.

My Priorities:

Youth voice in decision-making

• Advocate for meaningful youth participation in governance, not just representation.
• Push for transparent youth consultation in Regional strategic decisions.
• Empower National Youth Forums and ensure they connect across borders.

Mental health and well-being

• Champion mental wellness as a Scouting priority, not a side project.
• Work to develop peer-led support models in partnership with World Scouting networks.
• Advocate for training that helps Adult Leaders respond with care and competence.

Inclusive and safe Scouting spaces

• Build on SCOUTS SA’s example of creating Scouting spaces beyond societal binaries.
• Promote policies that protect and empower youth across gender, race, ability and identity.
• Foster a culture of belonging from the Patrol level to the continental level.

Meaningful engagement with spirituality, citizenship and the future

• Encourage approaches to spirituality that are inclusive, respectful and relevant to Africa’s diverse faith traditions and cultures.
• Promote active citizenship, equipping Scouts to lead in tackling climate change, inequality and unemployment in their communities.
• Support life-skills development that helps young people transition into adulthood with purpose and confidence.
• Reinforce Scouting as a space not just for moral education, but for action, dialogue and intergenerational solidarity.

Strengthening resilience and resource equity in Scouting

• Support capacity-building for NSOs facing barriers for growth, including access to funding, training and digital infrastructure.
• Promote youth-led solutions to climate change, unemployment and social exclusion.
• Push for Regional initiatives that close the gap between resource-rich and resource-scarce Scout environments.
• Uplift community-based Scouting that responds to local needs and strengthens resilience.

My Approach:

With You, Not Above You

I do not see this position as a title. I see it as a commitment to serve you, with openness, integrity and action. I come not as an expert, but as a listener, a connector and a fellow young person who believes that Africa’s youth are not just the future, but the present leaders of our Movement.

In conclusion:

Scouting gave me the courage to be myself, to lead with heart and to dream beyond limitations. Through this campaign, and if elected, I hope to help others experience that same transformation. Let us co-create a Scouting Africa where every young person can say: I am seen. I am safe. I belong.

Zama Mazibuko
Candidate for Youth Advisor to the Africa Scout Committee