The UK's new chief scout has credited the group for providing him with a place to "belong" after he survived a stabbing and an attempted shooting during his youth.
Mr Fields, the first black Briton to reach the North Pole, said he wanted to use his tenure to show Scouts is "a family for absolutely anyone".
He also said he feared many traditional outdoor skills were "at risk" and that he hoped to see membership to the group grow.
Mr Fields told the BBC that inner-city London was violent and robberies were commonplace when he was young.
"I was stabbed, I was a victim of street violence, I'd never carried a knife with malice, I've never carried any instruments with malice, and I suffered a stabbing incident just for being in the wrong place at the wrong time," he added.
Born in Jamaica, Mr Fields came to the UK aged six and grew up in east and north London.
According to reports, he was stabbed twice when he was 19 after an altercation outside a nightclub.
At 21, he says he had a gun pointed at him and only survived because the weapon jammed.
Mr Fields first attended a Scouts meeting in Palmers Green, north London, when he was seven, and said: "I never thought I belonged anywhere until the moment I walked into that hut."
In 2010, he made his expedition to the North Pole, and has since presented programmes for Channel 5, Disney+ and National Geographic.
"To be given this role as chief scout, to me it's pride of place, really," he said.
"There are a lot of groups and communities who still think that maybe scouting isn't for them and I'm hoping that they'll look at me and say, 'Well, actually, I have something in common with that guy - he grew up where I grew up, he looks like me. If scouting is for him, it's for me as well.'"
Writing for the BBC in 2012, Mr Fields said wanted to encourage inner-city teenagers to venture into the countryside as a way of "opening their worlds" and "unlocking their potential".
"The countryside opens you up to a different way of living," he said.
"You're away from trouble, away from your peers and the pressures of others. Living out in the wilderness you cannot survive on your own, you have to work as a team.
"It's these kind of skills - and others - that would have such a profound impact on teenagers' outlook on life."
From The Streets To The North Pole
Mr Fields' journey from the streets of London to the North Pole is a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative impact of community. His childhood was marred by violence, but he found solace and strength in the Scouts. His experiences as a young man shaped his commitment to making the organization accessible to all, regardless of their background. His appointment as chief scout is a powerful symbol of inclusion and diversity, inspiring a new generation of young people to embrace adventure and reach for their full potential.
The Importance of Outdoor Skills
Mr Fields is deeply concerned about the decline of traditional outdoor skills, recognizing their vital role in building confidence, resilience, and teamwork. He sees a need to rekindle young people's connection with nature, instilling a sense of appreciation and responsibility for the environment. He believes that by providing opportunities for outdoor exploration, the Scouts can foster a generation of environmentally conscious citizens who are equipped to face the challenges of the 21st century.
A Legacy of Growth
Mr Fields' vision for the Scouts is one of growth and inclusivity. He aims to expand the organization's reach, bringing more volunteers on board and creating a welcoming environment for young people from diverse backgrounds. He believes that by embracing a modern approach and fostering a sense of belonging, the Scouts can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of young people for generations to come. His legacy will be defined by his commitment to ensuring that the organization remains relevant and accessible to all.
A Symbol of Hope
Dwayne Fields' story is an inspiring testament to the human spirit's capacity for overcoming adversity. He embodies the values of the Scouts: courage, perseverance, and a belief in the power of community. His appointment as chief scout is a symbol of hope, signaling a commitment to inclusivity and a vision for a brighter future for the Scouts and for the young people it serves.
