Written by SSA Youth Influencer Letlhogonolo Tiger Modise 

When the recent Matric results were shared, 1st Montshioa Springbok Scout Lerato Nthoane held his breath and scanned the list for his name. The hard work, preparation and support he received from his family and Scouting paid off and he is now a proud Matriculant with a Bachelor’s pass!

North West Youth Influencer Letlhogonolo Tiger Modise chatted with Lerato about how Scouting helped him stay focused during his matric year.

SSA: What motivated you to work hard and pass your matric with good marks?

Lerato: I was motivated by the desire to make my family proud and secure a better future for myself. I also wanted to prove to myself that I was capable of achieving my goals.

SSA: Did you have roles models who inspired you to succeed?

Lerato: I had a few teachers and Scout Leaders who inspired me to work hard and pursue my passions. They believed in me and encouraged me to push beyond my limits.

SSA: How did your family support you during your matric year?

Lerato: My family was incredibly supportive during my matric year. They provided emotional support, helped me with my studies, and made sacrifices to ensure I had the resources I needed to succeed.

SSA: What study habits did you develop to help you stay on top of your schoolwork?

Lerato: I developed a routine of creating a study schedule, setting realistic goals, and reviewing my notes regularly. I also made sure to ask for help when I needed it and took breaks to avoid burnout.

SSA: Did being in Scouting help you with your discipline and focus during matric?

Lerato: Yes, being in Scouting taught me valuable skills like discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving, which helped me stay focused and motivated during my matric year.

SSA: You got your Springbok early 2024 and a lot of activities happen during a matric year. How did you balance your academic responsibilities with other activities, like Scouting?

Lerato: I prioritised my tasks, managed my time effectively, and learned to say “no” to non-essential commitments. I also made sure to communicate with my teachers, family, Scouters, and peers about my commitments and challenges.

SSA: Now that you are a Matriculant, what are your dreams for the future?

Lerato: I dream of pursuing a career in psychology and making a positive impact on people’s lives. I’m excited to explore my passions and interests further and see where life takes me!