The Office of the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, under the auspices of Deputy Chief Scout, His Excellency Kerwyn Garcia, S.C., First Gentleman, proudly hosted the first-ever overnight Scout camp on the grounds of The President’s House from March 31 to April 1, 2026.
The landmark event brought together three Scout patrols comprising twenty-four young men between the ages of 12 and 15, drawn from the wider Scout Programme, which encompasses Scouts, Sea Scouts and Air Scouts. Carefully selected by the Scout Association of Trinidad and Tobago, all participants had attained at least the Scout Standard level, demonstrating their readiness for advanced outdoor training, leadership and service.
This inaugural camp also marked the official launch of the ScoutsTT Heritage Badge Programme, a specialized initiative forming part of a new series of Proficiency Badges. Designed to reconnect Scouts with traditional activities that formed the foundation of earlier Scout training, while reinforcing the enduring values of the Movement.
The Heritage Badges carry deep historical significance, linking present-day Scouts and leaders with the practices and skills of earlier generations. Notably, the badges themselves form part of a preserved collection from a discontinued line of proficiency badges. Their reintroduction reflects a thoughtful commitment to stewardship and sustainability, in keeping with the Scout Law that “A Scout is Thrifty.”
During the camp, participants worked towards earning the Campfire Badge and the Observer Badge, developing competencies in outdoor skills and field observation. Activities included Fireman’s Chair Knot, Line Throwing, Compass Orientation and Tracking 1, and Signaling 1, alongside a series of Patrol Leadership and Communication Challenges. The programme also included a specially curated tour of The President’s House and its grounds, further enriching the Scouts’ appreciation of national history and heritage.
Following a full day of rigorous engagement, the evening culminated in a traditional campfire, where Scouts showcased their talents and shared in spirited patrol songs. The campfire was attended by First Vice Chairman of the Scout Association, Commodore Don Polo, and Deputy Chief Scout His Excellency Kerwyn Garcia, S.C., who actively participated in the proceedings.
His Excellency delivered the traditional “Yarn”, a short inspirational address, entitled “A Scout Smiles and Whistles Under All Difficulties,” encouraging the young men to embody resilience, optimism and service in all aspects of their lives.
This historic camp forms part of the Office of the President’s commemorative activities marking the 150th Anniversary of The President’s House and the 50th Anniversary of the Presidency. It reflects the continued commitment to opening the House and its grounds to initiatives that promote youth development, national heritage and leadership.
The camp was led by Camp Chief Nikoli Mohammed and supported by eighteen youth and Scout leaders, including Mr. Mark Ainsley John, former National Scout Commissioner and current Project Coordinator with the World Scout Bureau – Interamerican Scout Region.
At the conclusion of the exercise, all participating Scouts were awarded their badges by the Deputy Chief Scout in a badge presentation ceremony and expressed immense pride in being part of this pioneering experience.
This inaugural overnight camp stands as a defining moment in the evolution of Scouting in Trinidad and Tobago, bridging tradition and modernity while inspiring the next generation of leaders.
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