Written by Zama Mazibuko SSA Youth Influencer 

In August 2024, I had the incredible privilege of attending the 43rd World Scout Conference in Egypt, a significant global event where Scouting representatives from all corners of the world come together to discuss strategies, share ideas, and shape the future of Scouting. As both a delegate and a teller, I felt honoured to represent SCOUTS South Africa. Being in a room filled with passionate leaders and Scouting youth was humbling, and it made me truly grateful for the opportunity. I went into the conference determined to represent my country well, to learn as much as I could, and to make a meaningful contribution.

Before attending, I often wondered about my personal impact on Scouting. As just one person in Durban, it’s easy to feel small and question whether you’re making a real difference. But being at the conference shifted my perspective. One conversation that left a deep impression on me was with a Scout from Sweden who introduced the concept of “third spaces.” A third space is a place beyond home and work where you truly *want* to be, where you can be yourself without the pressures of responsibility. For many of us, Scouting is that third space—a place where we not only belong, but where we create a sense of belonging for others. His words resonated deeply with me because I realized Scouting has always been my third space. There are moments when life gets overwhelming, and I wonder why I continue showing up to Scout meetings. But as soon as I arrive, I remember how much I *want* to be there, and how it’s the place where I can truly be myself.

The World Scout Conference also gave me a clear vision of my future. For the longest time, I didn’t have a concrete answer when people asked what I wanted to be when I grew up. But meeting someone like Julius Kramer, who has worked with the UN and now teaches peace for the Swedish Government, showed me how Scouting can have an impact far beyond the Movement itself. I realised that I want to dedicate my life to using the skills I’ve gained through Scouting to empower the next generation and create meaningful change. I’ve seen firsthand how Scouting can transform lives, especially for those coming from difficult backgrounds. That’s the kind of impact I want to have—helping others become the best version of themselves, whether they’re in Scouting or not.

Zama, SA Chief Scout Khonzaphi, Free State Young Leader Rep Katleho

To anyone in the Scouting Movement, especially in Africa, who feels like they’re losing their place or like everything is becoming too overwhelming, I want you to know: there is absolutely a place for you in Scouting. Being at the World Scout Conference made me realise just how connected we all are. The contributions you make, no matter how small they seem, have a profound impact. It’s like the butterfly effect—when a butterfly flaps its wings, it can cause a tornado halfway around the world. In the same way, the difference you make in one Scout’s life can ripple out and change many other lives. You might not always see the results immediately, but that’s the beauty of Scouting.

It reminds me of the story of Moses in the Bible. When he was leading the Israelites, everyone else could see the pillar of fire guiding them, but Moses himself couldn’t see it. This idea has stuck with me—just because we may not always see the impact of our actions doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Sometimes the people around us can see the effects of our work even when we can’t.

One of the most valuable parts of the conference for me was the chance to exchange ideas with Scouts from different National Scout Organizations. I learned so much from the way other countries are approaching challenges, and I was able to share how we’re doing things in South Africa. But beyond the exchange of knowledge, the sense of community was what impacted me the most. I had been nervous before attending—over 1,800 people were there, and I feared I wouldn’t connect with anyone. But those fears quickly disappeared as I began speaking with people who shared the same passion and vision for Scouting. Despite coming from different parts of the world, there was a deep sense of familiarity and belonging.

When I returned home and spoke to my District Commissioner, who has been a mentor to me, I began to fully understand the impact of my experience. He encouraged me to share what I had learned, and that’s when I realised how much I had gained. The knowledge and insights I brought back from the conference weren’t just for my benefit—they could transform my home Troop and make a difference in our local Scouting community. I understood then that we’re never really operating in silos. My silo is connected to so many others, and the work we do in Scouting creates ripples that reach far beyond what we can see.

The World Scout Conference didn’t just equip me with new skills and ideas—it reinforced my sense of purpose within the global Scouting Movement. It reminded me that I am exactly where I’m supposed to be, and it gave me the clarity I needed to move forward, both in Scouting and in life. I now feel more connected, empowered, and ready to continue making an impact, knowing that the work we do in Scouting changes lives—even if we don’t always see it right away.

As a Youth Development organisation, SCOUTS South Africa encourages youth leadership throughout its programmes and structures. Regional Young Leader Representatives and Youth Influencers support young people in the Region and report on the impact SCOUTS South Africa’s programmes have on the lives of our members and communities. Zamangwe Mazibuko has been holding both these roles in KZN for some time and recently joined the team representing SCOUTS South Africa at the World Scout Conference in Egypt. For Zama it was much more than just a Conference …