The Scout Association of Malta has announced the appointment of Ahmad Alhendawi as the next Secretary General the World Organisation of the Scout Movement (WOSM), the youngest in the history of the organisation.

Following the announcement of Mr Alhendawi's appointment, George Cassar, Chief Scout of the Scout Association of Malta commented that, "we face very uncertain times [in our country and] throughout the world. Like Mr Alhendawi, I have no doubt Scouting can make a significant difference for our young people. After all, they are tomorrow's political and business leaders. Mr Alhendawi is the best person to guide our movement, reach out to everyone and help us all grow."

"I am honoured and humbled to be offered the opportunity to serve as the Secretary General of this unique organisation representing the largest educational youth movement in the world," said Mr Alhendawi upon accepting the offer.

Mr Alhendawi continued, "I am confident Scouting holds a solution for youth development in the 21st century. I look forward to working with WOSM's team to expand the Movement and deepen its social impact, while continuing to create a better future for children and young people."

A passionate advocate for young people, Mr Alhendawi has served in various capacities in regional and international organisations, rising through the ranks to the position of United Nations Envoy on Youth in 2013. Mr Alhendawi believes in giving a voice to young people and recognises the importance of youth empowerment and involvement in global and local issues.

Mr Alhendawi, born in Jordan in 1984, holds a Master's degree in Advanced European and International Relations, a diploma as "Policy Officer in European and International Organisations" from the Institut Européen in Nice, and a Bachelor's degree in computer information systems from the Al-Balqa Applied University in Jordan. Perhaps most importantly, he was once a Scout himself.

Mr Alhendawi is a strong supporter of WOSM and is a familiar face at international Scouting events. He visited the 23rd World Scout Jamboree in Japan last year and most recently the Roverway in France.

Mr Alhendawi succeeds Scott Teare, who retired last month. He is expected to begin his first day in office at the World Scout Bureau, Global Support Centre in Kuala Lumpur, on 1 March 2017. As the Secretary General of WOSM, Mr Alhendawi will be entrusted with the mandate of promoting and safeguarding the interests of the Scout Movement. As its Chief Executive Officer, he will also direct its Secretariat, the World Scout Bureau.

Permalink: Ahmad Alhendawi is the next Secretary General of the WOSM