Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall (right) presents the Governor General's Achievement Award to Dean Rhoden.

An outstanding Scout leader, Governor General's Achievement Award recipient for Surrey, Dean Rhoden has served as assistant district scout commissioner for St Andrew for more than a decade.

Through his Scout leadership, Rhoden has inspired many young people, travelling far and wide, helping to guide and shape young people's career paths.

The 47-year-old self-employed cabinet maker, has charted a life of community service and has empowered the youths in his community of Hermitage in St Andrew through several educational programmes.

He currently operates a homework programme in the troubled community of August Town.

Rhoden was instrumental in designing a five-year development plan for the Hermitage Education Centre with the intention to provide an avenue for the youths in the community to equip themselves with the necessary skills to be independent.

A graduate of the Papine Secondary School, Rhoden recently participated in a three-month training programme in the principles and practice of social work, at the University of the West Indies, Mona.

Married for 20 years, with two sons, Rhoden has been recognised for his service to scouting and other community activities with the Medal of Merit, for 10 years of outstanding service to the Scout Movement; Outstanding Community Volunteer Award; and an award for outstanding support to the Church Road Citizens' Association.

Rhoden one day hopes to compile an autobiography.