New Akela brings energy to 1st Kempton Park Cubs

There is a new face leading the Cub Pack at 1st Kempton Park Scout Group, with Boitumelo Mosala, affectionately known as Akela Kaa, taking over as Akela.

Akela Kaa succeeds Adele Stanley, known to the Cubs as Akela Shanti, who has moved into a position on the 1st Kempton Park Scout Group committee, where she will focus on fundraising and marketing.

For Mosala, the new role marks another step in her Scouting journey. She has been a Cub leader for two years and a Meerkat leader for one year.

Describing herself as energetic, adventurous and dedicated, Mosala is also a wife and mother of three boys. Away from Scouting and family life, she enjoys netball and trains for marathons, with completing the Comrades Marathon on her bucket list.

Her connection to Scouting has a family link. Her mother was a Brownie, and after a friend told her that Scouting was thriving locally, Mosala decided to get involved.

“I was hooked right from day one,” she said.

Now, as Akela, she hopes to help Cubs develop confidence and discover what they are capable of through practical activities and outdoor adventures.

If she could choose a superpower, Mosala said she would like the ability to fly so she could keep an eye on the Pack during outdoor activities while exploring the world from above.

Her dream Cub adventure would take the Pack to the Amazon rainforest, where they could explore different ecosystems, learn about plants and animals and keep nature journals.

Closer to home, hiking is one of her favourite activities, and she hopes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
There is also a quieter side to Mosala. The Cubs may be surprised to learn that she enjoys playing chess, particularly the strategy and patience involved in the game.

Her approach to Scouting is rooted in giving children a safe environment in which to challenge themselves, develop confidence and learn through experience.

Mosala believes this is particularly important in an increasingly digital world.

“It offers positive mentorship, real-world social connection and positive guidance that helps kids grow into resilient, well-rounded citizens,” she said.

For her, one of the greatest rewards of being a Cub leader is witnessing children accomplish something they once believed they could not do.

She hopes to create memorable experiences, encourage friendships and ensure that each Cub discovers something new and inspiring.

Stanley’s move from Akela to the group committee marks a change in responsibilities rather than a departure from 1st Kempton Park.

She will continue supporting the group, taking responsibility for fundraising and marketing and helping create opportunities and activities for the wider Scout group.

The change allows Mosala to bring her own ideas and leadership style to the Cub Pack while retaining Stanley’s experience and involvement in the organisation.

Mosala encourages parents who are considering Scouting for their children to give it a try.

“Give it a try, it truly is one of the best gifts of growth, fun and community you can give your child,” she said.

Join the Scouts
The 1st Kempton Park Scout Group caters for:
• Meerkats: Five to six years
• Cubs: Seven to 10 years
• Scouts: 11 to 18 years
For more information, email [email protected] or contact committee member Adele Stanley on 081 234 2342.