The Aga Khan Scouts and Guides explore the UBUNTU concept in nature. An outdoor event for Cubs and Brownies members was conducted by The Aga Khan Scouts and Guides Group in Dubai. The theme of this event was based on the concept UBUNTU, which comes from a Zulu phrase which, when translated literally means ‘I am because we are’.

Life and survival skills were the core focus of the activities which sought to inculcate leadership skills and sense of responsibility, implicit in the concept of UBUNTU.

What is UBUNTU?

Ubuntu comes from the Zulu phrase ‘Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu’ which literally means that a person is a person through other people. It is rooted in the concept of common humanity, and oneness. Archbishop Desmond Tutu, in his book,” No Future Without Forgiveness”, describes a person with UBUNTU as being open and available to others, affirming of others, and having proper self-assurance.  It can be equated with an individual having an understanding that he or she belongs to a greater whole and is diminished when others are humiliated, wronged or oppressed. He further explained that one cannot be human independently of others, and that when you have that quality of interconnectedness, you are known for your generosity.

Ehan Bandeali, a second time participant, commented “it was peaceful this time, and had more activities than last time, like bridge crossing, quad biking, pedal carting, paint ball and all that”

The participants aged 7-11, were accompanied by 20 rovers and senior guides.  “Such outdoor events provide a memorable opportunity to develop and learn new skills, and make new friends by participating in adventurous, thought-provoking creative activities.” explained

AKSG Group Commissioner, Asif Morani