How Scouts Canada Models the Award

Across Canada, Scout units are embracing the Award as a powerful complement to their existing youth programming. Through the dedication of passionate mentors and the alignment between the Award and the Canadian Path, Scouts Canada is not only delivering the Award, they’re using the framework to support personal growth, reflection and lifelong impact.

By following the Award Canada Way, units across the country are providing meaningful opportunities for young people to grow through challenge, service, skill building and adventure. The Award’s structure supports real-world outcomes such as increased confidence, leadership and resilience, outcomes that matter to youth, parents and future employers.

 

A Natural Fit: Scouting and the Award

For many Scout leaders, the Award feels like a natural extension of what they already do. “If you’re part of a youth group like Scouts, you probably already have the Award nearly earned,” says Nathan Yiu, Award Leader with the 11^th Toronto Scout Group. “We match the Award with the Canadian Path by incorporating it into their program whether that’s skill, service, physical activity, or outdoor adventure.”

This synergy is echoed by Jackson Kwok of the 6^th Richmond Hill Scout Group. “One journey, two credits,” he explains. “For example, hiking we have levels for Scouts but at the same time you can hike with purple and achieve the requirement for Bronze level.”

The Award doesn’t replace existing Scout goals, it enhances them. When integrated across a full unit, the experience becomes much more powerful. Delivering the Award as a group means everyone progresses together, builds shared memories, and develops a collective sense of achievement.

 

The Heart Behind the Leadership

What truly powers this partnership is the heart and history behind the leaders themselves.

For Jackson, the Award is more than a framework, it’s a philosophy. “I try not to direct or insist. I let the youth pick their journey,” he shares. “When they plan their own route, their own meals, they’re more engaged. They feel ownership. That’s what makes it meaningful.” His approach is rooted in mentorship, not management. He sees himself as a guide, helping youth navigate their own paths with confidence and curiosity.

Jackson’s commitment is deeply personal. He’s been an Award Leader for over 30 years and continues to find joy in every ceremony. “I organized an open presentation in front of parents and Scouts —150 participants. When a Scout receives their Award in front of everyone, the feeling is so different. It’s not just a certificate.”

Nathan’s connection to the Award is equally profound. His unit, the 11^th Toronto, was founded to help Chinese immigrant youth integrate into Canadian society. The Award, he says, has been part of their DNA for nearly 30 years thanks to legendary Scouter Mr. Shiu Wong, who brought his passion for the Award from Hong Kong to Toronto. “He had the time, the passion, and the love for the Award. He gave everything to help our youth succeed.”

Nathan has completed all three levels of the Award himself, but says the real reward comes from mentoring others. “Helping the next generation realize their passion, that’s a phenomenal feeling. It’s one step closer to giving back.”

 

Empowering Youth Through Choice and Challenge

Both leaders emphasize the importance of youth-led programming. “Let the youth pick their journey,” says Jackson. “We give them the framework, but they plan the route, the meals, the experience. That’s how they stay engaged.”

This approach aligns with the Award Canada Way, a model that puts youth at the centre. By tracking goals, logging progress, and reflecting on their activities, participants are developing the habits and mindsets that will serve them long after the Award is done.

The Award also gives advisors and leaders more flexibility. Instead of managing every activity, they guide youth through their chosen paths, encouraging ownership while building meaningful relationships. This approach is especially effective in Scouting, where independence and initiative are core values.

 

Real Impact, Real Recognition

The benefits go beyond badges. “The Award gives our youth something they can use to stand out—on university applications, in job interviews, in life,” says Nathan. “It fills in the gaps that Scouts may not fully highlight and rewards the things we’re already doing.”

For Jackson, the impact is visible in the pride of his youth. “I’ve seen Scouts receive their Award in front of 150 people. The feeling is different—it’s not just a certificate. It’s recognition of their experience.”

The Award also complements other Scouting milestones such as the Chief’s Scout Award or Queen’s/King’s Venturer Award. Many of the activities that count for these recognitions can also count toward the Award, meaning youth can achieve more with the same effort, while adding an internationally recognized credential to their name.

Advice for Other Units

Both leaders agree: success starts with leadership. “You need an Award Leader,” says Jackson. “Someone who understands the framework and can guide the youth through it.”

Nathan adds, “If your unit can’t run it, connect with a local Award Centre. I run one for Greater Toronto and take in youth from all over. It’s never too late to start even if you’re 22, you’ve still got time.”

Award Canada provides training, resources to help units get started and succeed in delivering the Award in a way that fits their own needs and traditions.

 

Growing the Movement

With units like 6^th Richmond Hill and 11^th Toronto leading the way, Scouts Canada is proving that the Award can thrive within existing youth programs. Their stories show that with the right support, the Award doesn’t just fit into Scouting, it elevates it.

 

Ready to bring the Award to your Scouts?

Explore how your unit can integrate the Award and give youth the recognition they deserve, without adding more work.

 

Note: Some quotes have been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Bring the Award to Your Scouts Unit

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