At the end of October, the first member of Scouting to have gone through Meerkats and Cubs will go up to Scouts. Neema Galetta joined the 1st Claremont Meerkat Den when it opened in October 2020. Our first meeting was an adventure in Keurboom Park, but we were soon locked down, and meetings proceeded online. Neema and five other Meerkats were invested with smiling faces and their parents pinning on the badges. For months thereafter, everyone wore masks.
Neema was an enthusiastic Meerkat and achieved his Bronze, Silver and Gold Stars before Burrowing up to Cubs at the end of 2021. One abiding memory, says Rafiki Judith Bishop, is of Neema at the Under the Sea Camp-at-Home coming up with a food called “Finding Nemo”. Neema also distinguished himself by starting a recycling collection at his local supermarket to raise funds for charity.
At Cubs Neema was always involved, a solid presence in his six. As Sixer he led Green Six with enthusiasm and always made sure that his Cubs knew where to go and what to do. He achieved both his Silver and Gold Wolves. He loved Cub Camps and especially the games played outside at meetings, says Akela Lucy du Toit.
We decided to ask Neema to reflect on his time at Meerkats and Cubs and this is what he said:
1. What has been your favourite memory from Cubs or Meerkats?
One of my favourite memories from Meerkats was attending our meetings online on Zoom during the COVID-19 lockdown. Even though we couldn’t be outside together, it was special to still see everyone and do activities from home. My favourite CUBS memories include holding Fluffy the snake when we had a snake visit, going on my first camp, and sleeping in tents. Playing games with a flashlight at night made it feel like a real adventurer. I was also really proud when I won the Aquaman award for swimming in the whirlpool on camp at Hawequas.
2. What are some of the things that you’ve learnt through Cubs and Meerkats?
I’ve learned how to tie different knots and use a compass. But more importantly, I’ve learned how to work as part of a team, be responsible and help others. I’ve also learned about nature and how to respect the environment. I enjoyed the iNaturalist challenge and learning about different plants in nature.
3. How do you think you’ve grown as a person through Meerkats, Cubs and being part of the Scouting Movement?
Being part of CUBS has helped me become more confident and independent. I’ve learned to speak up, take on leadership roles and try new things even when they seem scary. It’s also taught me to be kind and helpful to others. Being the Green Sixer was the best.
4. Is there something that you have struggled with at Cubs and have learnt to overcome it?
At first, I was really shy and didn’t like speaking in front of the group. But over time and with encouragement from my Meerkat and Cub leaders and Cub friends, I got better at it. Now I feel proud when I lead a game or help explain something to others.
5. Would you recommend that others join Scouts and if so, why?
Yes, I would. It’s a great way to make friends, learn new skills, and have fun outdoors. You get to do things you wouldn’t normally do at school or at home, and it helps you grow into a more confident young person.
Lucy du Toit and Judith Bishop
1st Claremont Scout Group
