Every August, South Africa celebrates Women’s Month by recognising the achievements of women while reflecting on the work that remains to ensure gender equality in our country. This year’s theme is “Empowered women Empower the nation”.

While most of the national conversation focuses on empowering women already in the workplace, we need to also ask ourselves: “Where do future female leaders first learn to lead?”

Leadership does not begin in a boardroom. It begins in communities, in schools, in volunteer organisations and through experiences that allow young people to develop confidence, resilience and the ability to solve real-world problems.

This is where Scouting has an important role to play. For decades, SCOUTS South Africa has provided a space where girls, boys, young women and men develop the practical and leadership skills that prepare them not only for employment, but for life. As one of the country’s largest youth movements, Scouting offers young girls opportunities to lead teams, organise projects, manage resources, make decisions under pressure and serve their communities.

These are not simulated leadership exercises. They are real responsibilities with real outcomes. Girls in Scouting lead environmental initiatives, coordinate community service projects, mentor younger members, organise camps, manage events and contribute to local decision-making. They learn to communicate effectively, work across cultures, resolve conflict and take responsibility for others. These are precisely the competencies that employers increasingly value in a rapidly changing economy.

All programmes within SCOUTS South Africa are built on the principle that every young person deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. Girls and boys participate together, learn from one another and share leadership responsibilities. Young girls and women serve as Sixers, Patrol Leaders, Rovers, adult volunteers, trainers, and members of governance structures at every level of the SA Scout Movement.

Leadership in Scouting is not determined by gender. It is earned through commitment, service and capability. This inclusive approach has benefits that extend well beyond the organisation itself.

Research consistently shows that diverse leadership teams make better decisions, create more innovative solutions and contribute to stronger organisations. By giving girls meaningful leadership opportunities from a young age, we help build the confidence and competence that allow them to pursue careers in business, education, science, engineering, public service and entrepreneurship.

Equally important, boys who grow up working alongside capable female leaders develop a deeper understanding of collaboration, mutual respect and shared responsibility. They enter adulthood expecting women to lead because they have experienced it throughout their youth. That cultural shift matters in a country where Gender-Based violence and gender inequality are still prevalent.

South Africa cannot build a resilient economy if half of its talent is underrepresented or if leadership opportunities only emerge later in life. We need to nurture leadership long before young people enter the workforce. SCOUTS South Africa does exactly that. Many young women who have progressed through Scouting are thriving in life. Others return as adult volunteers, mentoring the next generation and creating a cycle of empowerment that strengthens communities across South Africa.

This reflects the essence of this year’s Women’s Month theme. Empowered women do not only transform their own lives—they inspire, mentor and empower others. When we invest in girls, we invest in stronger families, stronger communities and a stronger nation. Because empowered women do indeed empower the nation.