Member Organizations from around the world harnessed the 43rd World Scout Conference to showcase their most innovative and impactful practices. The morning sessions were packed with discussions on various topics, from nutrition and wellbeing to digitalisation, artificial intelligence, environmental programmes, re-branding, inter–religious dialogue, and organisational growth. Their success stories demonstrated the dynamic and evolving nature of Scouting and its adaptability to modern challenges. Below is just a selection of some of the highlights:
Brazil's remarkable growth: The ‘Multiply’ project
Brazil has seen incredible growth in recent years, thanks to the implementation of the ‘multiply’ project. By making Scouting more flexible, they were able to reach a wider audience. Traditionally, Scout meetings in Brazil are held on Saturdays, but through strategic partnerships, they introduced weekday meetings and smaller units as a new approach to delivering Scouting. This flexibility has allowed more young people to participate.
The project also included the creation of an expansion kit that guides communities on how to establish new Scout units. The results have been extraordinary. In the last three years, Brazil has welcomed 37,000 new members, established an average of 2.5 new units per day, and expanded Scouting to new cities across the country. This effort has led to a remarkable 25% growth in just two years.
Peer-to-peer environmental learning: North Macedonia’s ‘Borenka’ campaign
Inspired by the Croatian Scouts Association’s reforestation campaign ‘Boranka’, the Scout Association of Macedonia adapted the initiative to fit their national context under the name ‘Borenka’. This campaign centred around the restoration of forests in areas devastated by fires.
As part of ‘Borenka’, Scouts organised a series of educational workshops in elementary schools nationwide. The workshops emphasised the importance of forests and environmental protection. Children, for example, were encouraged to draw trees using pencils made from ash. For every tree drawn, a real tree was planted during volunteer events. This peer-to-peer learning approach helped raise awareness of environmental issues, particularly among young people.
Staying connected during the pandemic: Vietnam Youth Academy
The Vietnam Youth Academy project was born out of the need to stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic when outdoor activities were severely restricted. The project focused on providing essential skills through online platforms, ensuring that Scouting continued to thrive in the face of adversity.
Through the initiative, Vietnamese Scouts learned to use digital tools, like Canva and Zoom, allowing them to stay engaged and continue their Scouting journey. The academy also facilitated connections between units across the country, helping Scouts to stay united and motivated. The project ensured that the spirit of Scouting remained strong in Vietnam, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability.
These stories from Brazil, North Macedonia, and Vietnam are just a few examples of how NSOs are leading the way in innovation and growth. By sharing these best practices, the global Scouting community continues to inspire and support each other in their common mission to equip young people with the skills and values they need to be ready for life.