Putting Young People First – Meet Asher, Our New District Youth Lead!
We’re excited to welcome Asher (they/them) as our new Youth Lead for South Ribble Scouts! They’re stepping into the role following Oliver Gunning and are ready to help young people shape the future of Scouting in our District.
Asher brings brilliant experience, boundless energy, and a genuine passion for ensuring young people have their say in shaping Scouting’s future across South Ribble.
June Holt, District Lead Volunteer said: “I’m truly excited to have Asher join us. Their commitment to youth-shaped Scouting really shines through, and I know they’ll represent the voices of young people brilliantly—not just locally, but nationally too. Asher has achieved so much in Scouts, both as a member and volunteer, and I’m confident they’ll bring amazing things to this role.”
About Asher
Asher’s Scouting journey started at Leyland St. Ambrose Scouts, going through each section before moving to Explorers at Enterprise ESU and becoming a Young Leader at 2nd Walton-le-Dale.
While at university, they joined Lowry Network and supported young people as a Team Member at Stegosaurus ESU. Now, they’re part of South Ribble Network and a Cub Team Member at 1st Hoghton (Holy Trinity) — inspiring the next generation with skills, confidence, and plenty of adventure.
Why did you apply for the Youth Lead role?
“Being part of the team not only allows me to develop my own skills but gives me the chance to follow my passion — helping to inspire young people,” says Asher.
“Having the opportunity to represent young people locally and within the County is incredible. From collecting the views of young people as part of the Cub Team to acting on those views and making positive change — that’s one of the main reasons I applied.”
For Asher, Scouting has been more than badges and adventure — it’s been a place to grow, belong, and discover who they really are.
“Scouting has helped me find out who I am, build confidence and be proud of that. I want to help create that same supportive space for others, where every young person feels heard, valued, and able to be themselves.”
What are you most excited about?
“I’m really excited about helping young people across South Ribble Scouts have their voices heard — and seeing their ideas turn into real change,” says Asher.
“It’s all about making sure Scouting reflects what young people want and need. I love seeing young people grow in confidence when they realise their opinions matter. I can’t wait to work with volunteers and young people to shape a truly youth-shaped programme. Plus, meeting new people and hearing about their Scouting journeys is always a bonus!”
What’s next?
As District Youth Lead, Asher will work alongside volunteers and young people to keep our programme youth-shaped, inclusive, and full of opportunities for young people to speak up, get involved, and lead the way.
They’re looking forward to meeting people from across the District and hearing about the amazing experiences gained through Scouting.
If you’ve got ideas to help make South Ribble Scouts even better, Asher would love to hear from you!
Together, we can help every young person gain skills for life — and make their voices count. 💚