The National Citizen Service (NCS) Trust has named Harris Bokhari as its next chair.

He has been appointed for a three-year term at the Trust, which runs the government’s flagship youth activity scheme the National Citizen Service, and replaces Brett Wigdortz, who has been in the role since 2018.

Bokhari founded youth charity Patchwork Foundation more than a decade ago and continues to sit on the youth charity’s board.

In addition, Bokhari is a trustee of the National History Museum, The Royal Parks and an elected council member of the National Trust. In 2015 he was awarded an OBE for services to young people and interfaith relations.

“I am eager to contribute my efforts in enabling many more teenagers to unlock their full potential, irrespective of their background. There has never been a more important time for NCS to give young people confidence and skills,” said Bokhari.

NCS Trust chief executive Mark Gifford added: “As the new Chair of NCS Trust, Harris brings an extensive range of expertise derived from his accomplished professional and philanthropic journey.

“Harris’ dedication to promoting the inclusion of underprivileged and underserved communities within civil society aligns perfectly with our vision of fostering a country of connected citizens benefiting from transformative experiences that bridge social divides.

"With Harris’ invaluable support, I am confident that we will achieve this vision and work diligently towards equipping young people with the inspiration and skills needed to thrive as they become work ready and world ready.

“As an organisation we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to learn and grow from Harris’ wealth of experience.”

Harris’ selection to chair the NCS follows a selection process led by the Department for Culture Media and Sport (DCMS).

Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said: “Harris’ experience of social enterprise and championing young people’s engagement in their communities will serve him well as the new Chair, leading the NCS Trust in its continued transformation and its new strategy.”

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Harris takes charge of the NCS Trust’s board as the organisation undergoes a period of change this year, which sees it expand on its original role under the coalition government to provide summer residential programmes for young people.

It will continue to offer residential schemes, as well as additional programmes in the community and online.

At its peak the service was backed with £180m government funding a year, but last year’s government youth review instead committed £171m investment to the NCS over three years.

In January the NCS appointed the Youth Hostelling Association to provide its residential programme.

Last month the Trust appointed Ofwat’s director of finance and procurement Sarfraz Nawaz as its executive director of finance.

He joins in September and "brings a wealth of knowledge, experience & passion for supporting young people", said the Trust.

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