Adventurer named as first female president of Scouts Scotland

Adventurer and world record holder Mollie Hughes has been announced as the new president of Scouts Scotland, becoming the first woman to hold the position.

She takes over the voluntary role from Chris Tiso, CEO of the Tiso Group.

Hughes, from Edinburgh, holds the world record for being the youngest woman in the world to ski solo from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole, which she reached in January this year after eight challenging weeks and 650 hours of skiing alone in whiteouts, storm-force winds and temperatures hitting -45C.

This was Hughes’ second world record breaking achievement, as in May 2017 she became the youngest woman in the world to successfully summit from both the south and north sides of Mount Everest.    

She now spends much of her time as a motivational speaker and frequently works with school-age children across the UK, inspiring them with her personal tales of adventure. 

Speaking about her new role, she said: “I’m honoured to be taking on this role. Scouts Scotland gives so many young people the chance to develop the skills they need to succeed in life. 

“Looking at what they have achieved throughout the pandemic, from holding meetings online to camps at home and now groups getting back to meeting face-to-face, it is just incredible. 

“I can’t wait to work together with young people in the Scouts to share my own experiences and to hear about the impact that Scouts has had on their lives.”

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Scouts Scotland is the country’s largest youth movement, and is open to everyone regardless of race, religion, gender or ability. 

Scouting has continued throughout the pandemic both through online meetings and now face-to-face where local protection levels allow it.

Andrew Sharkey, chief commissioner of Scouts Scotland, said: “We are delighted to have Mollie joining Scouts Scotland as president. 

“Through her many adventures and expeditions Mollie has shown her incredible ability, determination and resilience. 

“I have no doubt she will inspire and enthuse our young people and volunteers.”

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