Congratulations to 1st Revival Meerkat Musa Magagula for being the very first Gold Star Meerkat for the Mpumalanga Scout Region! We look forward to seeing you standing tall and doing your best as you continue your journey as a Cub in the new year!

With a little help from her mom Nomsa, we asked Musa about her Meerkat adventure:

SCOUTS SA: What was your favourite activity?
Musa: I liked all the activities, but my favourite was going to camps and meeting new friends. I loved the games and the crafts. I also like exploring, like when we went to the Dinosaur Park, and the gardening and watching – my plant grow.

SCOUTS SA: What is the biggest thing you learned?
Musa: I learned to be kind and good, and to take care of the environment. I also learned how to make speeches. And I learned the Meerkat motto and song: ‘Meerkats stand tall.’ I’m standing tall, even though I’m tiny. I’m smart even though I’m small, and I can do the things I should do.

SCOUTS SA: Why should your friends become a Meerkat?
Musa: To learn and do what you must do and be kind.

When we asked Musa’s mom Nomsa Magagula how she felt about her daughter being the first Gold Star Meerkat for the Mpumalanga Region, she said: “I am immensely proud of her. I believe this is the first of many great achievements for her as from Musa’s perspective, there are never obstacles or boundaries – just things she can overcome or conquer if she works hard.

If parents would ask about Meerkats in Scouting, I would explain that for my children, Meerkats has provided an incredible foundation. It is a safe and structured space that has allowed their personalities and talents to emerge and blossom. They have gained confidence and learned about teamwork, respect and independence. I would encourage other parents to sign their children up because the skills they learn here transcend into all areas of their lives.”