Written by Caroline Boshoff, SSA Youth Influencer
Morgan Schröder, a dedicated member of the 1st Walmer Crew, recently reached a significant milestone in his Scouting journey by earning the esteemed BP Award. This highest honour in the Rover Scout programme recognises outstanding leadership, service, and personal growth.
“My Scouting adventure started when I was just 8 years old. One of my favourite memories was the first night at Cubs, where we made fires. It was a magical moment that sparked my love for the outdoors. As a Scout, I fully embraced the Scouting spirit, enjoying camping trips, challenging hikes like the Cederberg Senior Scout Adventure, and finding ways to give back to my community.”
As a Scout, Morgan earned the prestigious First Class Award, and now as a young adult he has achieved another Scouting milestone. “The initial stages of the BP Award were relatively straightforward. However, as a Troop Scouter, I had to prioritise the development of my younger Scouts, which temporarily stalled my personal Rover journey. Once my Scouts got more independent, I refocused on my own goals and successfully completed the Community Service Bar.
My service project was focused on the Baakens Valley that runs through Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). These areas have been plagued by various issues, including poaching, littering, and crime. I organised clean-up efforts and ‘lent a hand’ to the local frog population by cleaning and draining water from discarded trash bins and safely releasing the frogs back into their natural environment.”
When asked about his feelings on achieving his BP Award, Morgan shared, “It doesn’t feel real yet. I’m sure the true impact will hit me when I physically receive the Award”, he says with a smile. “Looking ahead, I am excited about the prospect of taking on more leadership roles within the SA Scout Movement. I believe that effective leadership involves open and honest communication, empathy, and adaptability. Leadership is a journey, not a destination”, he adds, emphasising the importance of patience and persistence.
Morgan’s achievement is a testament to his dedication and commitment to Scouting. His inspiring journey serves as a model for other young people to strive for excellence and make a positive impact on their communities!
Morgan’s achievements serve as a model for other young Scouts to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in their communities. His commitment doesn’t only lie with his younger Scouts. “In the coming year, I plan to focus on mentoring my fellow Scouters and empowering younger Rovers to take on leadership roles within their Crew. By investing in the next generation of leaders, we can ensure the continued success of Scouting for years to come.”