Message from Leonilde Lima, Vice-Chair Africa Scout Committee

Dear SCOUTS South Africa,

Leonilde Lima, Vice-Chair Africa Scout Committee By World Scouting, Jonathan Law

Thank you for the kind invitation to share a message as you celebrate Women’s Month and Women’s Day. It is an honour to join you in recognising this important occasion under the theme “Empowering Women to Empower the Nation.”

Scouting is an educational Movement for girls and boys, women and men. It is a Movement that helps young people develop their full potential, grow as responsible citizens, and become leaders who serve their communities. Together, we learn that leadership is built on service, respect, courage, and integrity.

As Scouts, we are all Messengers of Peace. Whether we are girls or boys, women or men, we each have a responsibility to promote understanding, inclusion, and peace, and to contribute to building stronger and more compassionate communities.

Today, I would especially like to celebrate the girls and women of SCOUTS South Africa. To every young woman: believe in your abilities, embrace every opportunity to learn, and never underestimate the power of your voice. Your ideas, your courage, and your leadership have the potential to transform lives.

Empowering girls and women is not only about creating opportunities for them, it is about strengthening our entire Movement and our society. When girls are empowered to lead, everyone benefits. They inspire others, challenge barriers, and help build a more just, peaceful, and inclusive world.

I also wish to acknowledge the women volunteers, leaders, and mentors who dedicate their time to supporting young people. Your commitment, compassion, and example continue to shape the next generation of leaders.

As members of the World Scouting Movement, let us continue working together, women and men, girls and boys, to create an environment where everyone can thrive, lead with confidence, and contribute to a better world.

Happy Women’s Day to all the incredible women and girls of SCOUTS South Africa.