In a ceremony full of pride, purpose, and promise, Blek Crew – the 44th Malé Scout Group – was officially inaugurated on 4th April 2025 (04.04.25) at Thaajuddeen School. The event marked a significant milestone for the Maldivian Scouting community and set the tone for a new era of youth empowerment and leadership under the banner of “Scouting Beyond Limits.”
The ceremony began with a beautiful recitation of the Holy Quran by Mohamed Akmal Naseer, setting a spiritual tone for the event.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The inauguration saw the presence of notable figures in the Scouting movement, both past and present. Among them were:
- Abdulla Rasheed – Former Asia Pacific Region Regional Director, Former Chief Commissioner, Permanent Member of The Scout Association of Maldives, Recipient of Bronze Wolf (highest award) by the World Organization of Scouting Movement and Silver Tuna (highest award) by The Scout Association of Maldives
- Ahmed Ali Maniku – Former Chief Commissioner, Permanent Member of The Scout Association of Maldives and Recipient of Silver Tuna (highest award) by The Scout Association of Maldives
- Mohamed Khalid – Former Chief Commissioner of The Scout Association of Maldives
- Uz Hussain Mohamed Haneef – Former President of The Scout Association of Maldives & Current National Commissioner for Adult Resources and Safe Scouting
- Maeed Mohamed Zahir – Chief Commissioner of The Scout Association of Maldives
- Mohamed Ibrahim – National Scout Council Member
Their presence signified strong support for the newest Scout Group in the country and underscored the importance of continuing Scouting’s legacy in the Maldives.
Opening Remarks and Agreement Signing
Ahmed Baasiq Mohamed, Co-Founder of Blek Crew, delivered the opening remarks, expressing his gratitude and vision for the group. Following this, a key moment of the ceremony took place: the signing of the agreement between Blek Foundation (the sponsoring body of Blek Crew) and The Scout Association of Maldives.
The agreement was signed by Chief Commissioner Maeed Mohamed Zahir, with Uz Hussain Mohamed Haneef witnessing the signing on behalf of the Association, and by Ismail Rifau, President of Blek Foundation, with Ahmed Janah, General Manager of Blek Foundation, representing Blek Crew.
Brand & Website Launches
The official brand launch of Blek Crew was carried out by Abdulla Rasheed, marking the unveiling of a fresh, bold identity for the group. This was followed by the launch of the official website by Ahmed Ali Maniku, Former Chief Commissioner and Permanent Member of the Association.
Later in the ceremony, the Blek Crew Online Shop was launched by Chief Commissioner Maeed Mohamed Zahir, offering Scouts across the country access to premium outdoor and Scouting gear.
Promise Renewal & Scarf Handover
In a symbolic moment, 8 Rovers officially joined Blek Crew and received the Blek Crew scarf from the Group Scout Leader and Rover Advisor of Blek Crew, following a renewal of the Scout Promise.
In total, 46 Rovers from various Rover Crews in the Malé Region attended the ceremony, demonstrating unity and solidarity across the Scouting community.
Cultural Performance and Key Speeches
The Maldives National University Student Union’s Dance Group gave a special cultural performance, adding vibrance and local spirit to the event.
Ismail Rifau, Group Scout Leader of Blek Crew, shared heartfelt remarks about the vision and aspirations of the Crew. A speech was also delivered by Chief Commissioner Maeed Mohamed Zahir, who spoke on the importance of youth engagement and the future of Scouting in the Maldives. The keynote address was delivered by Abdulla Rasheed, whose words of encouragement inspired all attendees.
Closing the Ceremony
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks and a word of appreciation by La-aali Bint Ahmed, followed by the National Anthem of the Maldives, bringing the event to a powerful and patriotic close.
The inauguration of Blek Crew is more than just the birth of a new Scout Group. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Scouting in the Maldives – a movement that continues to inspire, guide, and empower young people to go beyond limits.
