Message from Chief Commissioner Gary Pienaar

Today we celebrate the start of a new year, with all the promise and possibilities that the next 12 months will bring.  Many of us will be enjoying time out with family and friends, using the opportunity to rest and recharge, after a busy and demanding year.

Thinking back on the past year, let us celebrate our successes and be proud of what we have accomplished together.  While there may have been a few challenges and possible disappointments along the way, let this not distract us from thinking about the new adventure that lies ahead.  Can we image new ways of taking Scouting to greater heights that we never considered before?  Can we stand together to uphold our treasured traditions and reaffirm the values that define Scouting, whilst also looking ahead to ensure that we remain relevant and meaningful to our members and society at large.

In a matter of weeks, Scouting will be starting up again and we will be back in our varied meeting places, providing an exciting and compelling programme which prepares our youth to ‘be ready for life’.  Helping our members, both young and old, learn new skills, gain self-confidence, inspire personal responsibility and action, whilst also making amazing memories.

As a leader and volunteer in either a Group, District or Region, how will you be using the year that lies ahead?  Do you have an eye on the future and have a plan on how you can keep growing Scouting? Whether it is filling those volunteer vacancies, opening a new unit in your existing Group, starting a new Group, or engaging with your wider community and introducing Scouting to people who might not have thought about joining our worldwide Movement.  There are all sorts of opportunities out there to consider.

As a volunteer responsible for programme delivery, have you developed a plan that will make the most of your, your assistants’ and parent supporters limited resources and available time? Remember, our annual National Challenge theme for 2025 is ‘Our Heritage’ and the programming resources provided will help focus attention on the rich and diverse cultures, traditions and practices from across our country.  We also hope to use this opportunity to mark Africa Scout Day on 13 March, to reflect on the legacy and positive impact that Scouting has had on the African continent.

Finally, on behalf of SCOUTS South Africa, a heartfelt thanks to all our amazing volunteers.  We couldn’t do what we do without you!  Volunteering takes time, effort and energy, and if it was easy everybody would be doing it.  But you are extraordinary, and you are making a measurable difference in our communities.

Help make 2025 our best year yet!

Yours in Scouting,
Gary Pienaar, Chief Commissioner