On Saturday, 12 September, we gathered to bid a fond farewell to our inaugural Rafiki, Judith Bishop, and to celebrate the remarkable contribution she has made to our Meerkat Den.

Judith founded the Meerkat Den in October 2020, together with fellow founding members and current leaders ADS Rebecca Hall, Scouter Nick Hall and Akela Lucy Du Toit. Since those early days, the Den has grown into a vibrant community, providing countless young children with opportunities to learn, explore, have adventures and develop a love of Scouting.

What many people may not realise, however, is just how deep Judith’s own Scouting roots run. Scouting has been a part of her life for many decades. Judith was herself a Brownie, Guide and Founders Guide, at a time when girls were unable to join the Scout movement. Her connection to Scouting also goes back a generation further: her father was a Scout and attended the 1930 National Jamboree.

Judith’s own leadership journey began as an Akela with the 1st Southampton Vale Cub Pack. She subsequently went on to serve as an Akela in both Johannesburg and Pretoria, bringing many years of experience, knowledge and enthusiasm to her role when she eventually helped establish our Meerkat Den.

The 1st Claremont Meerkats and Cubs singing a song specially for Rafiki at her final meeting

The farewell celebration was wonderfully well attended, with current and former Meerkats, their families and members of the Scouting community coming together to honour Judith and the significant contribution she has made to the Den.

There were heartfelt words from our SGL, Ian Webb; ADS, Rebecca Hall; and parent representative, Stefan Howells. We were also treated to a beautiful poem written especially for Judith by former Meerkat, and now Scout, Micaela Hall. Judith herself shared a few words, reflecting on her time with the Den and the people who have made it so special.

Rafiki goes through the tunnel of Meerkats, Cubs and Scouts at her farewell ceremony

Our Meerkat parents contributed a wonderful array of delicious food, making the occasion feel very much like a celebration of the community Judith helped to build.

As a lasting tribute, a tree was planted in Judith’s honour in the hall garden. Judith was also presented with a number of thank-you gifts, including a beautiful engraved wooden platter featuring a Scouts South Africa Meerkat and the words:

“May you always Stand Tall.”

These words seem particularly fitting for someone who has given so much of herself to helping young people grow in confidence, independence and character.

Judith has also contributed enormously to Meerkats in the Western Cape, both as Regional Team Coordinator for Meerkats, and in her current role on the Adult Training Team.

Judith will be sorely missed by the Den. Her experience, incredible organisation, attention to detail and unwavering commitment have helped shape our Meerkat Den from its very beginning. Above all, she has given her time, energy and enthusiasm generously, leaving behind a strong foundation for the next generation of Meerkats and leaders.

We are immensely grateful to Judith for everything she has done and for the legacy she leaves behind.

Thank you, Judith, for helping our Meerkats find their feet, spread their wings and, above all, Stand Tall.

Kirsty Gilmour – Assistant Den Scouter and Meerkat parent

On Saturday, 19 September, Meerkat Dens from across Cape Town, and as far afield as Paarl and Onrus, came together in Muizenberg for a good old-fashioned, carnival-themed Mob Day. With around 138 Meerkats in attendance, it was a fantastic opportunity for our young Scouts to meet Meerkats from other Dens and experience the fun of being part of a much bigger Scouting family.

First Claremont Meerkats were proud to run two of the carnival stalls: a tattoo stand and a fishing game, both of which proved popular with the Meerkats.

There was certainly no shortage of things to do! The Meerkats could try their hand at Sponge Toss, Bingo, Feed the Clown, Mask Decorating, Pin the Tail on the Lion and Shooting Squirts. With so many games and activities to choose from, there was plenty to keep everyone entertained.

The weather may have been very windy, but that certainly didn’t dampen the Meerkats’ spirits. They threw themselves into the activities with enthusiasm, laughter and plenty of energy, making the most of a wonderful day together.

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make the day such a memorable one, most especially 1st Muizenberg who were our hosts. We think it’s safe to say that Mob Day was a carnival of fun!

Kirsty Gilmour