Stephanie Charles. Daughter of the Group Scout Leader. 4th Dominica St. Alphonsus Scout Troop.

1. Thank you for agreeing to this interview. Blessings.
   May you please introduce yourself and what you do for those who may not
   know who you are?

Hi! My name is Stephanie Charles. I am a student of the Dominica state
College who is currently majoring in tourism. I am also a member of the St
Alphonsus scout troop which I enjoy in my free time. This is where I
showcase my leadership skills and engage with my fellow members. I am
currently a patrol leader of my troop. I am also currently running for Vice President of the School Government Association at my school.

2. Let’s start with the randoms! Favourite colour and why?

My favorite color…… well to be exact I have three favorite colors. They
are black gold and white. Those colors really stood out to me because I
believe it showcases my personality and how warm of a person I am.

3. How does it feel to be the daughter of the Group Scout Leader, and do you
feel that it places added pressure on you as an individual?

I was born into scouting, so being daughter of the group scout leader feels
like a reward. It does not place any pressure on me because I look up to
my father as my guide and I am continuously learning my skills and traits from him. Being able to have leadership skills handed down to you. It’s like a blessing as well as responsibility.

4. What’s your favourite thing about scouting?

My favorite thing about scouting is the emphasis on teamwork and outdoor activities inclusive of many skills. This fosters personal growth and a sense of community.

5. When did you take the decision to become a scout and how has it been for
you so far?

I took the decision to become a scout on September 5th 2021 . I would just say that so far it has been a wonderful experience.

6. What’s your most cherished scouting memory?

My most cherished memory of scouting was visiting the founder of our group
Mr. Roy Royer. It was an honour meeting the man who started this present group, creating leadership and discipline.

7. Random number two. Favourite meal and why? (And can you cook it?)

My favorite food is honey-barbque chicken. Cooking has been one of my main
passions growing up and I enjoy cooking my favorite meal as well as discovering new cooking skills and menus.

8. You are patrol leader presently, what was some of the process to obtain
that position? some of the difficulties that your troop in particular is facing
at the moment?

To become patrol leader, I demonstrated leadership skills by actively
participating in troop activities, earning the trust of my peers, and showing
commitment to the troop’s goals. I also communicated my interest in the
position to my scoutmaster and received recommendations from fellow
scouts.
Currently, our troop is facing challenges such as low attendance at
meetings, difficulty in planning engaging activities, and a lack of new
recruits. We are working on strategies to increase participation and foster a
more welcoming environment for newcomers.

9. What is one, or a maybe a few things about your troop that make(s) it
stand out?

One thing that makes our troop stand out is our commitment to community
service. We regularly organize volunteer events adn activities to support local charities.
Additionally, we emphasize skill-building through unique activities like
outdoor survival training and leadership workshops, fostering teamwork
and resilience among members.

10.How did you enjoy the last two parades? The National Youth Rally and
Memorial Day Parade?

The last two parades were great. we had satisfactory attendance, and our National Youth Rally display was flawless! We performed in collaboration with the Dominica Girl Guides. All in all it was great.

This great shot above was taken by Robert Larocque at the 2024 National Youth Rally. The troop extends heartfelt thanks for these lovely photos!

11. Random number three. Cake or Ice-cream, and favourite flavour?

I like both, but my favorite ice cream is grape nut.

12. What has scouting done for you as an individual?

Scouting has helped me develop valuable life skills such as leadership,
teamwork, and problem-solving. It has fostered a sense of responsibility,
community service, and outdoor skills, while also promoting personal
growth and resilience through various challenges and experiences. It has made me a better person.

13. What’s one probably unknown fact about you that may surprise
people?

That I used to write my own songs, I love singing and showcasing my talent,
I am also very soft hearted. I love helping others and caring for others
even though they might have wronged me.

14. How do you feel when you put on your scout uniform? Is it the same
feeling like the very first time (if you remember)?

Putting on my scout uniform brings a sense of pride and belonging. While
the excitement might not be as intense as the first time, it still evokes a
strong connection to the values and camaraderie of scouting.

Above are some more spectacular shots by Robert Larocque at this year’s (2024) National Youth rally.

15. What are some things that you would like to see happen for your
troop?

I would like to see more opportunities in various forms presented to, or offered to my troop, as well as more outdoor camps and activities.

16. If you could snap your fingers and have 5 things appear instantly for
the troop, what would they be?

a) First aid kits

b) Camping gear (tents, sleeping bags)

c) Cooking supplies (portable stove, coal pot, Barbeque grill, utensils)

d) Craft materials (paint, brushes, paper)

e) Team-building games and activities equipment

17. What would you say to a young person doubting whether to join the
movement, particularly your troop?

I would encourage them to consider the values and experiences they could
gain by joining. Being part of a scout troop offers opportunities for friendship building, various skill development, and personal growth. It’s a chance to make a positive impact on your and the wider community while having fun and creating lasting memories. Ultimately, it’s about finding a supportive group that shares your interests and passions.

18. Describe yourself/ life in three words.

Adaptable
Attentive
Thoughtful