ACCORDING to information available on their website, the Scout Association of Guyana was established in British Guiana in 1909, two years after it was founded in England by Sir Robert Baden-Powell. This was the first country in the Caribbean where it was established and the second in South America. The initial scout troop was founded at Queen’s College by Sgt Major George Manley, a member of a British regiment stationed here, and scouting soon spread to other schools and churches. By the mid-century, there were over 25 troops in BG, many initiated by church groups. These included Queens, St Mary’s, St Theresa’s, St Stanislaus, St Francis, St Thomas More, HQ Troop 39, St Pius, and Central High in Georgetown.
The Pepperpot Magazine spoke with the current Chief Commissioner of the Scout Association, Yonnick David, who shared with us his involvement in the association having grgone through the association’s ranks from the tender age of seven.

David explained that Cub, explorer, and venturer groups are the Scout Association’s three arms. According to him, he has built confidence and discipline and learned leadership skills as he interfaces and deals with his business daily thanks to his experience as a Scout.
David noted that he sees the Scout Association as one of the largest groups in Guyana dealing with young people who are learning an array of skills that will benefit them in their later lives. He added that there are several successful men and women who have illustrious careers that came out of the Scout movement- careers such as doctors, lawyers, and the like.
According to him, the Scout Association and its members are working in close collaboration with members of the Guyana Police Force.

He noted that if someone wants to become enlisted in the Scout Association, the impartation of information is very simple to follow, even if you are familiar with what is expected of you.
Recently, the Scout Association hosted its 14th Caribbean Jamboree commemorating its 100th year in scouting at the Sophia Exhibition Centre under the theme “One Movement, One Destiny”. Contingents came from Argentina, the Bahamas, Barbados, the British Virgin Islands, Jamaica, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Suriname & Trinidad & Tobago.

Over the years, the Scout Association has been equipping young people with the skills necessary to develop themselves in areas of survival. These include culinary skills for the various categories and groups.
Scout Association of Guyana is the largest and oldest youth organisation in Guyana. Developing Youths Since 1909.

According to information found on their website: Elsie Taylor, wife of Peter Taylor, former Editor of the Evening News, dedicated her life to scouting in Guyana and for many years kept the movement alive despite constraints and a period of near dormancy in the seventies. Her motivational skills were exceptional, and she endeared herself to every scout in Guyana, being their ‘second mother’ and mentor. DB St Aubyn, MBE, Commissioner 1952, was very instrumental in acquiring the present scout headquarters on Woolford Avenue, Thomas Lands.
The 3rd Caribbean Jamboree held at the Queen Elizabeth Park (later National Park) was a memorable affair, and probably one of the best in this hemisphere. Contingents came from Canada, England and all the Caribbean Islands. Sir David Rose was the Chief Patron and it is estimated that over 1500 scouts participated.