Gerard Evans
Gerard Evans was known across the country and the world for his commitment to Scouting in South Africa. He joined scouting as a Cub at 6th Benoni in 1976 and was active until his passing in September 2021.
Some of Gerard's achievements in his scouting career
- Joined cubs in 1976
- 2nd Gilten PLTU
- Achieved Springbok Scout (1983)
- Chief Scouts Award,
- Attended 18th World Jamboree - Netherlands 1995
- BP award (1996)
- SANJAMB:2017
Gerard contributed to so many initiatives and young people’s lives that it is hard to choose the highlights. He championed for the improvement of the youth programme first through the Star Programme, and then strengthened the Rover RAC structures.
He was a firm believer that under the right leadership every young person could better their lives, and dedicated his time and expertise to do just that.
When he first accepted a national role, he went on to lead the initiative to develop a Rover Programme for SCOUTS South Africa, introducing training and recognition for the Rover Chair. Not being satisfied, he then stepped up when called upon to finalise and roll out the “Entsha” Scout programme.
In October 2020 he took up the Chair National Scout Programme where he worked to ensure that young people had the best Scouting experience possible. As the International Committee Chair he simplified processes and oversaw international exchanges and collaborations.
These contributions he made while continuing to support the training of young people though his role as the PLTU Chair and active unit member, acting as course director for more courses than most can attest, including launching the first all-girls PLTU in Gauteng and training the next generation of the Gilten Unit.
Gerard contributed the South African Contingents to the World Scout Jamborees. He led as Contingent Leader to the 23rd WSJ in Japan and the 24th WSJ in West Virginia USA.
He was a husband and a father, supporting, with the hard work and clear partnership of Tanya, both of his daughters (Megan and Sarah) to the completion of their Springbok Awards and cords, including the first service cord after its reintroduction.
We have lost a gentleman, a friend and a valued Scout.
Adapted from a tribute by Brendon Hausberger - circulated as GTscouters: Gone Home Gerard Evans