Not every ChangeMaker sets out to change the world. Sometimes, it’s the young person who makes everyone laugh around the campfire, remembers to say thank you and brings a little extra happiness to their Scout group, that makes a big difference.
For 13-year-old Nathaniel Compton from 6th Wrexham Scout Group, making a difference comes naturally, although most of the time, he doesn’t even realise he’s doing it.
Nathaniel has been nominated for ScoutsCymru’s ChangeMakers feature by his Group Lead Volunteer, Andrew McGregor-Andrew, who believes his kindness, sense of humour and positive attitude deserve to be celebrated.
And recently, Nathaniel has found a particularly entertaining way to bring a smile to everyone’s face!
Lately, he’s started arriving at Scout campfires wearing different costumes, much to the amusement of his fellow Scouts and volunteers. It’s become a brilliant example of his individuality and willingness to make others laugh.
But there’s much more to Nathaniel than his campfire appearances.
Andrew says it’s Nathaniel’s thoughtfulness and consideration for others that really stand out. He’s always polite, caring towards his fellow Scouts and quick to thank the volunteers who give their time to organise activities and adventures.
Nathaniel also approaches Scouting with enthusiasm and determination. He makes the effort to take part in activities and events, and even when he is uncomfortable or experiences a setback, he shows determination to carry on and remain involved. That resilience, combined with his positive attitude, is something worth recognising.
For Nathaniel, Scouting is all about the experiences he’s had, the friendships he’s made and the opportunities he’s been given.
“I think Scouts is brilliant and it’s helped me experience things I wouldn’t have been able to. I’m very grateful for all the opportunities.
“I’m happy I’ve met some good people and been able to do it all with my friends. I’m very grateful.”
For Andrew, these everyday qualities are exactly what being a ChangeMaker is all about.
“Sometimes we focus on young people who have achieved something extraordinary or received a prestigious award, but I believe it’s just as important to recognise those who make a difference through the way they treat others,” said Andrew.
“Nathaniel brings so much to our group. He makes people smile, he’s thoughtful and considerate, and he genuinely appreciates the opportunities our volunteers provide.
“You don’t have to change the world single-handedly to be a ChangeMaker. Sometimes, making people smile, showing kindness, appreciating others and continuing to turn up with a positive attitude can make a bigger difference than you might ever realise.”
Andrew hopes Nathaniel’s story will encourage other young people to recognise that their everyday actions can have a positive impact on the people around them.
“Nathaniel may not see himself as someone who makes a difference, but from my perspective as a volunteer, he absolutely does. He embodies what a ChangeMaker should be, and we’re really proud to have him as part of our Scout group.”
At ScoutsCymru, we know that making a difference comes in many forms. Whether it’s helping others, taking on a challenge, standing up for something you believe in or simply bringing a little kindness and happiness into someone’s day, every positive action matters.
While Nathaniel is grateful for everything Scouting has given him, Andrew is equally grateful for everything Nathaniel brings to his Scout group.
And perhaps that’s what makes this ChangeMakers story so special. Nathaniel doesn’t set out to make a difference but he really does, just by being himself.
