Hi, I’m José Pamplona, I am 35 years old — a Scout, a communicator, and a bridge-builder at heart.
I currently serve as both the International Commissioner and Vice-President of the Portuguese Scout Association — roles that allow me to connect strategy with people, and vision with action.
I’m running for the European Scout Committee because I believe that, together, we can make our Region more united, more dynamic, and more prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
A Life Shaped by Scouting
Like many Scouts, my journey started at the very core of Scouting — in the local group.
For me, that was Local Unit 107 in Cascais.
I began serving as a local leader at the age of 20 and, until I was 27, I had the opportunity to work with all age sections. During that time, I also took on the role of Group Leader, coordinating the leadership teams across all sections.
Affectionately known as the “107”, our group is deeply connected to outdoor life. It was not uncommon for our most active members to reach nearly 30 nights of camping per year. Adventure and the thrill of discovering new landscapes have always been part of our DNA.
The spirit of our group is reflected in the colours of our neckerchief: green for hope, black for tenacity.
Like many Scouts, my journey started at the very core of Scouting — in the local group.
For me, that was Local Unit 107 in Cascais.
I began serving as a local leader at the age of 20 and, until I was 27, I had the opportunity to work with all age sections. During that time, I also took on the role of Group Leader, coordinating the leadership teams across all sections.
Affectionately known as the “107”, our group is deeply connected to outdoor life. It was not uncommon for our most active members to reach nearly 30 nights of camping per year. Adventure and the thrill of discovering new landscapes have always been part of our DNA.
The spirit of our group is reflected in the colours of our neckerchief: green for hope, black for tenacity.
International Scouting Leadership
As International Commissioner of Portugal, I represent my country in the global Scout Movement — building strong partnerships, contributing to international decision-making, and supporting meaningful collaboration across regions.
- International Commissioner (since 2019)
- Board Member, Portuguese Scout Federation (since 2019)
- Head of Delegation at the 42nd & 43rd World Scout Conferences
- Delegate on the 17th European Guide Conference and the 24rd European Scout Conference in the Netherlander (2022)
- Youth Delegate on the 16th European Guide Conference and the 23rd European Scout Conference in Croatia (2019)
- External Relations Lead for the upcoming World Scout Moot 2025
These roles have given me hands-on experience with diplomacy, intercultural dialogue, crisis management, and external representation — all vital for service on the European Scout Committee.
National Scouting Leadership
In my role as Vice-President of the Portuguese Scout Association, I focus on strategic direction, institutional development, and creating a strong foundation for the future of our Movement.
- Vice-President, Portuguese Scout Association (since 2020)
- Member of the Crisis Management Task Force — leading strategic responses to COVID-19 and global emergencies
- Board Member, Portuguese Scout Association (since 2016)
- Member of the Strategic Plan Monitoring Committee, Portuguese Scout Association (since 2024)
This dual responsibility — managing both internal development and external engagement — has helped me become a well-rounded, strategic, and values-driven leader.
Youth Advocacy & Public Policy
My commitment to youth voice goes beyond Scouting. I’ve spent years working to ensure young people are not just seen — but heard — in decision-making spaces.
- Representative, Portuguese National Youth Council (2015–2020)
- Advisor, National Youth Advisory Council (Government of Portugal, since 2019)
- Advisor, Municipal Education Council (Municipality of Cascais, 2020-2023)
This background gives me a strong foundation in policy advocacy, public affairs, and working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, advocate for youth rights, inclusion, education, and sustainability — all critical tools for advancing the goals of the European Scout Region.
Professional Background
I hold a degree in Marketing, Public Relations and Advertising, which complements my Scouting work with professional skills in communication, strategy, and storytelling.
- Strong communicator with experience in campaigns, branding, and public engagement
- Passionate about using communication to mobilize, inspire, and connect communities
- Strategic mindset shaped by both NGO leadership and private-sector thinking
What I Bring to the European Scout Committee
- Proven international experience in diplomacy, governance, and partnerships
- A bridge between grassroots Scouting and institutional strategy
- Deep commitment to youth participation, programme quality, and collaboration
- A calm, solution-oriented, and collaborative leadership style
- A vision for a Region that is united, inclusive, and future-ready
