Teenage LGBTQIA+ Advocate And Musician Archie Todd Earns Prestigious Queen’s Scout Award
According to Scouts New South Wales, Archie Todd, Armidale’s Young Citizen Of The Year and a talented musician, has added another impressive achievement to his list: The Queen’s Scout Award. The 14 to 17-year-old Venturer Scouts earn this top honour by challenging themselves and expanding their skills across various areas.
“I’ve worked mostly in the background in the Inclusion and Diversity space and it’s nice to be appreciated.” – Archie Todd
As a transgender youth, Archie is passionate about advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights. He’s helped establish his school’s Rainbow Club and even represented Scouts at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. His musical talents have also shone, with a spot as a finalist in Triple J’s 2023 Unearthed competition and many live performances.
For his Queen’s Scout Award, Archie dove into diverse activities like mock trials, abseiling, and serving on the Scouts NSW State Youth Council. His inclusive approach to the required Adventurous Journey hike was groundbreaking.
“I planned the hike to explore areas surrounding a base camp so that people could carry only what they needed that day in their packs while they hiked.” – Archie Todd
This allowed Venturer Scouts with health limitations to fully participate, an approach Archie hopes future Award hopefuls will adopt.
Balancing Scouting Achievements with Real-Life Challenges
Chief Commissioner Lloyd Nurthen emphasised how the 29 Venturer Scouts and 3 Rover Scouts honoured at the ceremony had to balance their impressive Scouting achievements with the demands of Higher School Certificate studies, apprenticeships, and entering the workforce. Universities recognise the prestigious Queen’s Scout Award with additional ATAR points.
With his Queen’s Scout Award, LGBTQIA+ advocacy, and musical talents, Archie Todd is a shining example of a well-rounded, high-achieving Scout. His efforts in inclusion and diversity within Scouting and beyond make him a role model for youth everywhere.
