Scouts rally to celebrate founder
“These awards recognise the time, dedication and contributions Jean made to the movement.”
After 50 years of dedicated service to the scouting movement, Jean James-Smith stepped down as district commissioner for the Northrand scouting district.
Jean stepped down as district commissioner on Baden Powell (BP) Sunday, February 23.
She handed the proverbial torch to Andrew Campbell, who will take over as district commissioner.
The annual event celebrated around the world is celebrated on the Sunday closest to their founder, Lord Baden Powell’s, birthday – February 25.
This year’s celebrations were hosted by First Edenvale Scout Group at Shanahan Hall.
Besides stepping down as district commissioner, Jean was presented a 50-year bar and a Medal of Merit for her time and dedication to the movement.
She received the award from regional commissioner for the Gauteng Scout Region Angus Hay.
“These awards recognise the time, dedication and contributions Jean made to the movement.”
Jean, who was involved in the movement in SA and the United Kingdom, said she never regretted joining the movement.
One of her fondest memories was an outing she had while Akela of a Cub Pack in Kensington UK.
“We went to the Billy Smart Circus for some anniversary and the atmosphere was electric.
“We had a wonderful time at the circus and on the way home we were at a station on the circle line for 40 minutes, and while waiting the children were singing campfire songs.”
Jean told those in attendance to never forget the strength of their promises made to the movement.
“The values and principles of scouts will guide you your entire life.”
Besides Jean’s stepping down, numerous awards were presented to scouts and scouters for notable achievements.
“I am impressed by the sheer number of scouts here today,” said Angus.
As regional commissioner, he hopes to grow the number of scouts in the Gauteng region.
He said there are many members of the youth ready to start their own troops, but the movement needs adults to volunteer and lead them.
In light of national media reporting on incidents where children were either injured or hurt, Angus explained that what makes the movement so different from other movements is the Scout Method.
“Scouts is structured around the buddy system and patrol method which sees the youth taking leadership.”
He explained the patrol system allows for one leader who reports senior members.
“We have the rules structure and methods in place to offer safe adventures.”
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