Gladstone scout Lolwethu Ndaba makes history with Springbok badge

LOLWETHU Ndaba has made history in Gladstone scouting by becoming the first Black girl from the town to receive a Springbok badge, one of the highest honours in South African scouting.

For Ndaba, the milestone carries deep personal meaning. “It really is a big honour because it has been an amazing journey, and it is something I’m very proud to have achieved,” she said.

The Springbok badge represents the culmination of years of commitment, assessment and personal development within the scouting movement, and Ndaba’s achievement marks a significant moment for the local group.

Early steps into scouting

Ndaba’s journey began in late 2021 after she heard about scouting through her church. Curious to learn more, she attended a Friday evening meeting, an experience that proved decisive.

“After that Friday, I was sure that I would definitely be joining scouts, and I have to say I’m glad I made that decision,” she said.

She officially joined the Gladstone Scouts Group in early 2022, beginning a process that would challenge her across leadership, planning and personal discipline.

The moment it became real

The emotional weight of the achievement became clear when she was informed that she had earned the Springbok badge.

“I was so happy and relieved that I actually burst out into tears. I had been extremely nervous before and during the evaluation interview, so the sheer relief I felt was indescribable,” she said.

At the time, Ndaba was also navigating the pressures of her final school year, a balancing act she described as the most demanding part of the journey.

“It put me under a lot of pressure because I felt both were important, but I couldn’t just focus on one thing the entire time,” she admitted.

Leadership under pressure

Leadership development formed a core part of her progression. “Part of the journey towards earning a Springbok badge is testing your leadership skills, how well you can lead your team, and how you react when things don’t go according to plan,” Ndaba explained.

One of her standout moments came during her pioneering project, where she designed and led the construction of a structure using poles and rope.

“I had delegated tasks and remained calm throughout, which showed me I had grown, because Lolwethu from three years ago would have had three mental breakdowns before the project,” she reflected.

Support and looking ahead

Throughout the process, Ndaba credited her troop and church community for their support. “Everyone kept tabs on me and asked if I needed help with anything, which I am extremely grateful for,” she said.

Scouting also helped her identify personal strengths and future interests. When asked what advice she would offer younger scouts, she said, “Don’t be like me and start planning in advance, especially if you are a matric candidate. Planning is extremely important.”

Looking ahead, Ndaba plans to remain involved in scouting as an adult helper and is considering joining the Rovers, continuing her connection to the movement that shaped her achievement.