Young women are the future of Guiding

LEADERS Girlguides from the Titchfield Division, from left: Bethany Vartan, Kathryn Simpson and Chantal Dewey

It’s 100 years since Girlguiding created a special section for its members who had been at the forefront of establishing Guiding.

Rangers were created for those over 16 years old.

There were land rangers, sea rangers, and air rangers, and for those who wanted to be leaders, there were cadet groups where girls trained  to be the leaders of the future.

One hundred years on, our senior section is made up of any member between the ages of 14 and 26, including young leaders, rangers and Duke of Edinburgh award groups.

Lots of our young members help with Rainbow, Brownie and Guide units, and learn leadership skills.

Planning your own programme, and organising your own activities, is key to participation for this age group.

Girlguiding Hampshire East launched its senior section spectacular on February 22 – International Thinking Day for all Girlguides and girl Scouts across the world – by climbing the highest point in our county.

Eighty girls and leaders climbed Butser Hill in the dark where they lit sparklers, and made their promise as senior section members, some for the first time.

It was muddy but the weather was kind, being cold but clear and dry.

We could see our county lit up before us.

It was great to see so many of our senior section members taking part.

These amazing young women are the future of Guiding, and they gain so many skills and experiences from being part of the largest organisation for girls and young women in the UK, and in the world.

Earlier in the weekend, Havant Division had celebrated by gathering on the seashore for a campfire and promise ceremonies.

Parents joined girls and leaders for a short evening get-together led by some young leaders.

At Fareham Leisure Centre, over 150 girls and leaders had a fun afternoon, with swimming and zumba sessions, and the chance to take part in activities for their senior section centenary challenge.

In a time-honoured  Guiding tradition, they brought shiny pennies to donate to the Thinking Day Fund, which helps support guiding in developing countries.

For more information about how to get involved in Guiding, go to girlguiding.org.uk.