Leadership Development
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.”
— Simon Sinek
In Scouting, young women learn that true leadership begins with service, empathy, and integrity. Through patrol teamwork, outdoor challenges, and community service, they develop virtues like responsibility, perseverance, and respect. These experiences teach them to lead not by authority, but by example — to listen, guide, and uplift others. As they grow in confidence and character, they become leaders who understand that caring for others is the highest form of strength. These lessons don’t end at the edge of the campsite — they carry forward into classrooms, careers, and communities, shaping women who lead with heart and purpose.
Leadership Training for Scouts
Scout Leadership 101
Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops (ILST) is the first step in Scouting America’s youth leadership training. It teaches Scouts in leadership positions their roles, responsibilities, and the skills they need to lead effectively. ILST builds confidence, teamwork, and servant leadership, preparing Scouts for advanced training like National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)
Pine Tree
The Pine Tree Course is the Indian Nations Council’s signature junior leader training program. It’s a four‑day, three‑night experience where Scouts form a model troop, camp together, and practice leadership in patrols. Designed for Scouts Second Class and above (typically age 12+), Pine Tree builds confidence, outdoor skills, and servant leadership, preparing youth for advanced training like NYLT.
NYLT
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is Scouting America’s premier youth leadership course. It’s a six‑day immersive program where Scouts live in patrols, practice servant leadership, and learn how to lead themselves and others. NYLT equips youth with vision, planning, communication, and teamwork skills that prepare them to be effective leaders in their troops, schools, and communities.
NAYLE
The National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE) is Scouting America’s highest-level youth leadership training. It builds on skills learned in NYLT and challenges Scouts to apply them in high-adventure settings. Conducted at Philmont Scout Ranch and other national bases, NAYLE immerses participants in rugged outdoor experiences while reinforcing servant leadership, ethical decision-making, and team development.