Girl Guides from Drogheda, Clogherhead, Monasterboice and Tullyallen travelled to the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise last Saturday to attend a special ceremony at which they were presented with the highest honour a Guide can receive – the Trail Blazer Award.
These girls aged 14-15 brought their families and Guide Leaders to witness the event that marks the pinnacle of their time in Guiding. Each girl received a Trail Blazer gold pin from Irish Girl Guides (IGG) President Deirdre Henley and a National Guide Award certificate from Chief Commissioner Amanda O’Sullivan.
IGG President Deirdre Henley admired the strength and determination these Girl Guides have demonstrated. “They are an inspiration to girls everywhere. By demonstrating their commitment to Guiding and taking on the many challenges and projects involved, they are better prepared to make a positive influence on their communities and society as a whole.”
Carina Egan, Chair of the Guide Branch of IGG and organiser of the event, stressed the importance of working hard. “These girls stand tall and are true trailblazers,” she said.
“I have been honoured to be a part of celebrating and acknowledging the dedication on display and these girls’ achievements. By completing a series of challenges that stress teamwork, the outdoors, our communities, global citizenship, and mentoring those younger than them, these Guides have developed confidence and independence that will carry with them for years.”
Chief Commissioner of IGG, Amanda O’Sullivan, echoed these sentiments. “I am delighted for everyone here,” she said. “It has been an honour and a privilege to watch them grow and to become strong, independent young women. They embody the true spirit of Guiding and represent the best of Irish Girl Guides.”
Irish Girl Guides welcomes members from age 5+ and volunteer Leaders from age 18+. To find out more, see www.irishgirlguides.ie or phone: 01 6683898.
