International Day of the Girl 2015

Blue Oceans Guides Celebrates International Day of the Girl

The Blue Oceans Group of Bharat Scouts and Guides, India celebrated the International Day of the Girl on 11 October 2015 by learning abou tthe Global Goals of Sustainable Development. The Blue Oceans Girl Guides is based in the Government High School Handiaya (Barnala) of Punjab, India. Girl Guide leader Amritpal Kaur shared how the group celebrated the International Day of the Girl (IDG) this year. A total of 32 Girl Guides and 10 Scouts participated in the International Day of the Girl celebrations in the school. Firstly, the participants were divided into seven groups. Each group was given a drawing sheet and asked to draw ten flowers on it. Some of the groups were given additional materials to make sure their flower looked better. The participants were then asked to stop and discuss the inequality in the drawing process.

After that, a wooden stool was placed in the middle of the room. The children were told that if they felt the drawing condition set were unfair, then could stand on the stool and speak out about it. The drawing exercise continued, with additional unfair conditions being set for the different group. This time, the children spoke out and shouted for equality. Next was the Global Goals Bowling. The Unit leader gave the children the Goals Success cards. The 17 Global Goals were written on the board. If they chose the correct Goal, they received an opportunity to play the bowling game. At the end of the activity, the leader explained why there is a need to have the Goals and introduced the participants to the 17 Global Goals for Sustainable Development. After that, the participants were divided into four zones – People, Planet, Prosperity and Peace. They were given time to discuss the topic in their respective zone. They designed their own vision for a better world. The activity ended with the children coming together and choosing the Global Goal that they would like to work on – Gender Equality. All four groups agreed that education for all, especially girl education is vital to achieve this Global Goal. The activities used were adapted from the 10 Million Voices Activity Pack launced by WAGGGS for the International Day of the Girl 2015.

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Asia Pacific Workshop – Prepared to Learn,

Prepared to Lead, Philippines

The APR Workshop on Education Programme and Adult Training, Learning and Development was held from 7 – 13 December 2015, at the Ating Tahanan National Training Centre, Baguio, Philippines. The workshop theme was “Prepared to Learn, Prepared to Lead”; designed to equip eight school-based Member Organizations in the Asia Pacific Region to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to be able to review and develop our Member’s Organization’s Educational Programme and Adult Training, Learning and Development programme. The theme of the workshop was summarised into one single keyword “girls-led.” The facilitators role-modelled the theme repeatedly but it wasn’t until the session “In Our Shoes” when we organised programmes for the Girl Scouts in Baguio City that we were hit with the realisation that most of us leaned towards “leaders-led” than “girls-led”. That was a huge revelation – are we stuck in the old styles of education where we are results-oriented and

dictate to the girls about their direction and how to have fun, and have forgotten that the

experience of the self-discovered process is much more empowering? Have we ourselves been our own obstacles towards our Member Organization’s Vision? Of course not! All we need to do is to remind ourselves that the girls in the 21

st Century

have needs that are diversely different from those 100 years ago. That is why we are here at the workshop. Hours flew by with us deep in discussion and as the week came to a close, the majority of our favourite new tagline “my Brain hurts” geared towards promising “Eureka” moments. Madam Perema Ramasamy, Girl Guides Singapore, shared that “the workshop offered very clear insight on how to plan and design a

framework aligned with WAGGGS educational method. We are now equipped with the necessary knowledge and foresight in which we will be able to equip our trainers with the necessary delivery methods directed at the girl programme.” As we left the workshop reluctantly bidding our farewells to our newfound friends, we felt a sense of empowerment. The next three years will be undoubtedly be challenging but we know that we share one voice: together we will make a difference.

Girl Guides Singapore, Perema Ramasamy, Janet Kwek, Ng Kim Geok, Jasmine Cheong

Girl Scouts of the Philippines Celebrates Girl Scout Week with the Launch of

Catholic Guiding Section The Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) celebrated its annual Girl Scout Week with Girl Scouts all over the Philippines engaged in various activities relating to this year's theme, "Connect, Protect, Respect." At the national level, the highlight of the celebration was on 18 September 2015, where Girl Scouts, headed by GSP National President Susan Locsin, attended a Thanksgiving Mass at the Manila Cathedral Basilica and witnessed the launch of Catholic Guiding. Dr. Amelita Dayrit-Go, Membership Committee Chairperson, said that members of the Catholic Guiding Section in the Philippines must first be registered members of GSP. This section will undertake the same Eight-Point Challenge Program of GSP, infused with the values of the Holy Gospel.

The traditional Josefa Llanes Escoda Ceremony, a yearly observance honoring the GSP Founder also took place. A tour of GSP's

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new National Heritage Center concluded the event.

Bridge Between Two Guilds In keeping with WAGGGS’ 2015 theme of “Partnership", the Girl Guides Association of Malaysia’s National Guild and the Trefoil Guild of Girl Guides Singapore came together for a joint event called a “Bridge Between Two Guilds”. Held at Hotel Grand BlueWave, Johor Baru, Malaysia, on 14 – 15 November, 18 members from Trefoil Guild Singapore left in the early morning to join counterparts for two days of fun-filled games and activities. The programme included a dialogue and an exchange of ideas on what each Guild was doing and planned to do. A speaker from the Singapore Scout Association, Mr Anthony Ng, spoke on “Volunteerism” and how to engage volunteers to come forward.

Led by the National Guild Commissioner, Puan Azizah Abdul Majid, the key co-organisers were Malaysian International Commissioner, Ms Thammy Chong, and Ms June L. Angking. Together, they pulled off a very successful and meaningful event. Leaders and members from the various States of Malaysia, such as Sarawak, Sabah, Penang, Kedah and Selangor, including Advisor of Girl Guides Association of Malaysia, Johor Branch, Y.M. Tunku Fatimah Faridah Binti Tunku Osman, supported the event. She hosted a sumptuous dinner at her residence, which saw the participants letting their hair down. They enjoyed good food, continued conversations from the earlier part of the day, and even danced to a live band. The oldest participant was 85 years old. As they bonded with each other and actively participated in the activities, it was evident that they put into practice the Guide Promise. Together, they laid the foundation to build and strengthen close ties between our two Guilds. The friendships that had been forged over the

two days will continue to last even after the event. These ties will form the “Bridge Between Two Guilds”. Through similar events in the future, we will build more bridges to other Guilds in the region (e.g. Brunei Trefoil Guild). The Trefoil Guild Girl Guides Singapore would like to express our heart-felt appreciation to the Malaysian National Guild for hosting such a wonderful and successful event, which saw us achieving our goal of "Partnership".

Trefoil Guild President PK Choy Girl Guides Singapore

“Basic Careers Promoting During Study” Project for Thai Girls

The Girl Guides (Girl Scouts) Association of Thailand (GGAT) received a grant from the Friends of Asia Pacific WAGGGS Membership Benefit Fund for training “Basic careers promoting during study” project in Wieng Pa-Pao District, Chiang Rai Province, Northern Region of Thailand.

The objectives of the project were to provide the opportunity to the less fortunate young school girls to learn simple vocational skills to support their families by earning extra income and avoid being lured to human trafficking due to lack of income for the family. Between 6 – 20 October 2015, GGAT provided basic training for 60 girls aged 10 and 18 years. They were trained in Girl Guides activities to be able to work and help each other, themselves, friends and family with dignity.

The girls trained in four basic career skills such as sewing bags, making handcraft souvenirs and Lanna Lamp, cooking and native Thai pastry baking.

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After the training, they visited places in Chiang Mai and will complete small income-generating activities in their area. Some quotes from the project participants: “Hello, My name is Sasikan Sae Mouw. I come from Pong Nok school. I come to train in this project which promotes the vocational training for girls and young women. I have received training on basic occupations such as sewing, cooking, making artificial flowers. I am very impressed in cooking because I can cook for my family, and simple cooking that can be sold as income during the study. Thank you all the teachers for sharing their knowledge to me.” “Hello, My name is Nattha Wiangbaprot. I come from Mae Tala school. I was trained by this project which trained young women to develop skills. I learned basic career things such as baking, sewing, fabrication jobs, cooking, lovely pastry. Because I can make and sell in school and in the community, l will have income during my studies. Thank you all trainers.” “Hello, Meesaa Mayuarit is my name. I come from the Foundation of Krunum. I have studied many things from this training, such as cooking, flower decorating, to be deployed in the Foundation and my instructors will bring products to Chiang Saen district market. I gain knowledge from many teachers. Thank you”

Filipino Girl Scouts Say “Register, Be Prepared to Vote”

Thousands of Filipino Girl Scouts gathered in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines on 18 September 2015 to support the Philippine Commission on Elections’s (COMELEC) “No Bio, No Boto” campaign encouraging people to complete their biometrics, so they would be able to vote in the coming national election in 2016.

“This initiative will help open the eyes of Girl Scouts to the significance of the right to suffrage, as well as make their families and relatives aware of the importance of biometrics in the upcoming election” said Susan Locsin, National President of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP). “The Girl Scouts are the best people to encourage their parents and other family members to register or validate their

registration, so they can vote next year,” said Andres Bautista, Chairman of COMELEC, who graced the occasion and witnessed the Girl Scouts in action. The Filipino Girl Scouts undertook several other activities supporting the campaign to remind their families, relatives, friends, and social media friends who are of voting age to update their biometrics at the Office of the Election Officer of the city/municipality where they reside. These are just some of the many ways Girl Scouts contribute to nation building. Filipino Girl Scouts Share the Fight Against

Breast Cancer The Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) supported the awareness and fundraising campaign initiative of Avon, through the Avon Walk for a Purpose Crusade held on 10 October 2015 at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds, Pasay City, Philippines. 100 Junior, Senior and Cadet Girl Scouts from Metro Manila Councils and National Headquarters Professional Staff joined the Walk. By participating in this campaign, GSP believes that this will help girls and young women increase their level of awareness, raise funds, and reach out to countless women as more and more people become involved to prevent and fight breast cancer.

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The fundraising efforts were able to establish and maintain the Philippine General Hospital-Avon Breast Care Center and support selected provincial hospitals nationwide.

Japanese Girl Scout Inspired at the “Women in the World Summit”

The “Women in the World Summit” was held in London on 8 – 9 October 2015 and a Japanese Girl Scout, Yukine Kawamura, attended the event as a delegate of WAGGGS. Yukine, 16 years old, was inspired a lot and started her journey to change the world. "What I have done in London. I was empowered to change world.” 23 young women from 10 Member Organizations; Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Germany, Holland, Hong Kong, Ireland, Japan, UK and USA, gathered in London to attend the “Women in the World Summit” as the WAGGGS delegation. Dove, sponsor of the Free Being Me programme in partnership with WAGGGS, sponsored the event. “I attended the event as the representative of Girl Scouts of Japan, and as a member of the delegation from WAGGGS. And I came back as a member of Generation Girl (*). Participating in the programmes including the pre-session for the WAGGGS delegation, listening to stories told on the stage, and talking with amazing women, I was encouraged very effectively. Getting concrete ideas, skills and hints from them, I understood that there are lots of things I can do right away! And I realized this is empowering girls. Empowerment is the best souvenir I received in London.

From now on, I will take action to change the world. Rather, there is no way to stay quiet. I’m proud of myself involved in this event as the representative of Girl Scouts of Japan. It was an unforgettable experience and I couldn’t have such a great opportunity in Japan. Because of the language problem, it was frustrating not to be able to talk in English what I wanted to say. Actually, I wrote some sentences in Japanese on the evaluation form. However, it was truly amazing experience for me. Now, I am different from who I was. Thank you so much for giving me such a great opportunity."

Yukine Kawamura, Troop 51 of Nara Council, Girl Scouts of Japan

*'Generation Girl' is a movement to inspire and encourage young women and girls to recognize their potential, pursue excellence and be undeniable.

Indian Leaders are Introduced to Surf Smart and Free Being Me

The Guide House Jalandhar, India organised a Basic Course Camp and Advance Course Camp for 47 Guide Captains and Flock Leaders. During this course, under the guidance of Sarabjeet Kaur (S.T.C. Guide) and Neeta Kasyap (S.O.C. Guide), the Surf Smart and Free Being Me programmes were followed by Amritpal Kaur (Guide Captain –G.H.S.) and Handiaya (Barnala). The Surf Smart activities introduced were: Connect Positively – the participants discussed the disadvantages of the internet and they shared positive online sites. What‘s The Message? – Guide Captain was given a phrase. Then she drew a picture on the board that depicts the message given in the respective phrase. The participants are directed to determine the message that they are receiving from the picture. They all gave different views and none guessed correctly. After that, they are explained that messages can change online. We had a discussion on how much control do we have over posted information online.

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Protect Yourself From Online Risks – the participants discussed the three basic tips to keep themselves safe online. They also shared ways of making perfect passwords. Respect Your Rights and Reputation online – The participants were paired, and asked to consider the reputation they portray when they post something online. Tips were provided on how they can maintain a good online reputation. Through participating in a number of the Free Being Me activities, Leaders were exposed to the (mis)conception of beauty; discussed where the Image Myth has come from; the costs involved with maintaining this standard

of ‘beauty’; designed their own magazine covers and expressed their own feelings about Free Being Me.

NZ Brownies Helping Those in Need

Collecting food for those in need was the top choice for Brownies in Rotorua, New Zealand, as their community project. The local newspaper, the Rotorua Daily Post, was gathering food for the Salvation Army foodbank as part of its Christmas Appeal. Debbie Cobby, leader of 24th Rotorua Brownies, said that in September the girls completed a 12-hour service day by helping out various community organisations around Rotorua, one of which was the foodbank. "We wanted to add to that and make it bigger and better," Debbie Cobby said. "We talked with the girls about what the foodbank was and how they could help contribute towards it. The girls were each given a large brown paper bag that they decorated and used to collect food, with the help of their parents, friends and neighbours. Many walked around their street with their parents and collected their food that way. We sent out 24 bags, one for each of the girls, and we have trolley loads full of food that they collected."

Debbie Cobby said she was extremely proud of the commitment and effort the girls had put into the collection and that they were extremely proud that they had filled the Guide hall with food for those in need at Christmas time.

Girl Scouts of the Philippines Joins the

Fight to End Extreme Poverty Senior Girl Scouts and Troop Leaders from Manila Council, together with Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) National Headquarters staff, participated in the United Nations’ (UN) commemoration of the International Day for Eradication of Poverty and the Philippines’s National Week for Overcoming Extreme Poverty on 21 October 2015, at the Commemorative Stone Marker of the Victims of Extreme Poverty in Rizal Park, Manila. The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is celebrated every 17 October throughout the world. It was officially recognized by the UN in 1992, but the first commemoration of the event took place in Paris, France in 1987 when over 100,000 people gathered in the Human Rights and Liberties Plaza at the Trocadéro to honour victims of poverty, hunger, violence, and fear. The program aims to gather citizens and public and private institutions to express their rejection of extreme poverty through the theme “Building a sustainable future: Coming together to end poverty and discrimination”. This year's commemoration is significant, being the first observance following the formal adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the UN General Assembly to replace the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Joining this event increased the Girl Scouts’ level of awareness on poverty and strengthen their conviction to help end poverty. Girl Scouts performed the entrance of colours and the singing of the Philippines’ national anthem. During the program, they also expressed their opinion regarding poverty by writing on the freedom wall.

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Various activities were undertaken by Girl Scout Councils nationwide to support this campaign. This year's Poster and Universal Prayer were shared on Girl Scout social networking platforms for mass advocacy. Last year, around 500 livelihood projects in different communities were implemented through the Chief Girl Scout Medal Scheme.

Voices Against Violence Curriculum

Launched in Japan! Girl Scouts of Japan (GSJ) launched Voices against Violence (VAV) Curriculum! On 21 and 22 September 2015, GSJ held a VAV Training Session for Trainers. It aimed to increase skills to deliver the programme for girls and young women. 28 Trainers participated in the training and developed an understanding of the curriculum. In Japan, we have been working for the WAGGGS 'Stop the Violence' campaign since 2012. GSJ focused on 'Dating Violence' to increase awareness of violence to young women. About 20,000 people in total have been involved in the campaign during the three years. To expand the campaign, GSJ introduced the VAV curriculum and provides it to girls and young women to learn about various forms of violence and how to prevent them. GSJ is going to deliver the curriculum all over Japan and empower girls and young women. The 28 Trainers and 9 members who attended the ACTIVATE training at Sangam in December 2014 will organise additional trainings for more Leaders. Prior to the roll-out of the curriculum, GSJ established a 'Child Protection Policy' in May 2015.

WAGGGS’ Girl Guide and Girl Scout Experience Forum 2015, Oman

The room started filling with sights of beautiful smiles, sounds of greetings from different languages, and with the smell of freshly brewed coffee, sweet smell of cookies it was a delightful scene. Familiar signs and symbols. Yes! 100 members from 44 different destinations in one room – together in Oman from 28 November – 2 December. It was a total heavenly moment and ecstasy of Omani hospitality. The second day began with the beautiful ceremony with Arabic melody by the scouts of Sultanate of Oman. The inspirational ceremony was concluded with a speech by Mariyam, a young leader. "Volunteerism is not about spending your free time it is about helping others without expecting anything in return"

So much appreciation goes to the technology. The whole event was live streamed for anyone and everyone to join world wide. The key questions tweeted by the participants and WAGGGS paved way for many to join the event from far and near. Greatly proven that technology is vital today for anything and everything, however the importance of keeping our culture is worthy to note. It was the best example for all of us that most of the sessions were facilitated by various Member Organizations (MOs) so that the whole event was "girl-led" Such inspirational and enriching projects were shared by MOs provided hope and unstoppable courage to try new things. The dynamic group discussion among MOs provided much needed ideas to tackle different issues faced by different MOs. The sessions varied from tasting very bad lollies to hearing about how small initiatives are now world recognized projects. Discussions about the latest research by different MOs to lots of challenges some MO’s are facing. The importance of making the whole movement girl-led. Ways and means to make it more meaningful and accessible to everyone. In addition, the ideas market made

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it more interesting and provided opportunity for everyone to land at the perfect spot for partnership. Displays from camping equipment’s to discussions on adult trainings programs made it not only colourful but richly informative. The light bulb filled with small piece of papers was bliss for all. So many ideas, skills and amazing experiences shared were a stimulating bright light. Yes! “If we keep doing the same thing, we will keep getting the same result”. Indeed we are evolving and we shall evolve based on spot-on needs. The whole aim of Oman Forum 15 was to gather successful stories, collect the best and most effective tools, develop partnerships, think of great strategies to modernize the Girl Guide movement and develop the best features to deliver the programme to today’s generation. Definitely the theme talked itself. The forum was about “Friends, Fun, Freedom, Future" As the light bulb shows it was a great network of making friends, developing partnership and shaping the future. It was a unique and great learning experience for all. Huge appreciation to Oman Guides and Scouts for the amazing hospitality, the Arab Region and WAGGGS for the wonderful initiative. Indeed the first Girl Guide and Girl Scout experience is special in every way and made us grow wider, showed us to be BOLD and BRAVE. The suitcase of 100 participants was heavy at the end of the day not just with souvenirs and gifts from Oman, but with ideas, strategies, hope, and inspiration. The best kind of tool box one would need to spread the Guiding light.

Rasheeda Najeeb, Maldives Girl Guides

Making Missions Possible for NZ Young

Leaders With the theme of Mission I’m Possible, New Zealand’s Young Leaders Event encompassed adventure, challenge and reflection on the

participants’ own journey and discovery into their personal strengths and skills. For some young leaders, Mission I’m Possible was the first time they had attended such an event, and having only become qualified leaders they didn’t really know anyone else attending or what to expect over the weekend. During the three day event, emotions and self esteem were covered along with an explanation of advocacy and how they could use advocacy in their programme, including the WAGGGS Stop the Violence campaign, Free Being Me and the WAGGGS/Dove Self Esteem Project.

A speaker from A Girl Called Hope presented to the group. It is a non–profit organisation that works with young women who face life–controlling issues and behaviour, such as abuse, addictions, depression, eating disorders, self-harm and unplanned pregnancy. The participants in Mission I’m Possible went out and purchased gifts and items for the young women who will be living in this residential facility over Christmas. “To have a speaker from A Girl Called Hope and then actually do something to help, instead of just hearing about it and then forgetting to do anything, was brilliant”. Tree Adventures offered participants a very physical and emotional part of the weekend that involved individual challenge and overcoming personal barriers, but also working together and supporting each other. They embraced the challenge and the encouragement, and conquered the challenge! As part of the problem solving aspect, Escape Masters was an exhilarating adventure at an inner city indoor games room which tested participants’ ability to work together to find clues, solve puzzles and crack the code to escape from the room, all limited by time.

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GirlGuiding NZ believes it is important for young leaders to grow and gain skills and that Guiding can help them do that. With the average age of attendees at 24, one of the sessions was on hearing from women, who have been in Guiding for years who are taking every opportunity they can to become more involved. “I understand that girls are not immune to the pressures contributing to low self-confidence. The presentation of the programme with simple, easy to understand activities and a dedicated training workshop makes it a very appealing programme to implement in my own unit”. Mission I’m Possible was completely funded by the Asia Pacific Project 3L funding.

Bangladesh’s 8th

National Rangers Camp “Nothing’s Impossible” was the theme and Guiding message behind the 8

th National

Rangers Camp 2015 organized by Bangladesh Girl Guides Association (BGGA) in its Camp Area at Baroipara in Kaliakoir upazila under Gazipur district. The Rangers attended the Camp, participated in various program events and enjoyed its proceedings for five days from 6 – 10 August 2015. BGGA National Commissioner Sayeda Rehana Imam inaugurated the Camp.

About 450 Rangers, Ranger Guides, Commissioners, local and district-level BGGA Guide Members representing college, university and independent Rangers Units from all over the country took part in the five-day long camp. The Rangers were sub-divided into seven sub-camps in order to facilitate their effective participation in various programmatic exercises around such items as accu-pressure, log-book preparation, adventurism, skin and mouth care, etc.; in addition, there was a cuisine contest along-side focus on culture and tradition representing different regions as well as a session on Free Being

Me. Rangers visit to Gazipur Old Home (dwelling for the needy persons in fallen age) was a noteworthy aspect of camp exercise, where they gave company to the elderly inmates. The Rangers got very lively and elated when they went to nearby Nandon Park and enjoyed various merry-making options available there. In fact, the Rangers took optimum interest in all the exercises programmed for them in the camp. Chief Guest Mr. S M Alam praised the BGGA agenda and called on the Rangers to continue their social service with sincerity and diligence in aid of the needy people; on his part, he assured all-out support and cooperation to BGGA programs in Gazipur. Later, he distributed certificates and prizes amongst the successful participants. Leading business firms and corporate bodies of the country offered their helping hands to BGGA in organizing the Camp. NCC Bank, PRAN group, Laz Pharma and Ispahani Mirzapur Tea sponsored camp souvenirs through advertisement; plus PRAN group, Nabisco Biscuit Company, Maggi Noodles and Ispahani Mirzapur Tea supplied food for all during the camp days.

12 Singapore Girl Guides Receive the Highest Award

Twelve Girl Guides from Girl Guides Singapore (GGS) were conferred the 2015 President’s Guide Award by Singapore President Tony Tan Keng Yam at the Istana during the award ceremony on 2 December 2015. The President’s Guide Award (PGA) is the highest honour bestowed on our nation’s most all-rounded Girl Guides in recognition of their excellent performance, dedication to the Movement and service to the community. The award represents the pinnacle of achievement for these Girl Guides and indicates their preparedness for a lifetime of service to God, nation and all mankind.

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The tremendous support these recipients received from their respective schools, Principals, Guiders and parents made it possible for them to overcome the rigours of various stringent tests in order to attain the Award. PGA recipient Bernice Lim Si Min expressed gratitude for “the support of my Guiders, fellow Guides, family and friends”, and how she learnt firsthand that “as long as we are prepared, we can overcome all difficulties.” Another recipient Sarah Foo Phey Shin was inspired by her grandfather, who was a Queen’s Scout Award recipient in 1952, to take on Guides as a school core-curriculum activity. “The Guiding journey, with its many activities such as camping, has helped me to acquire many ‘back-to-basic’ survival skills, which are often neglected in this technology age. I’ve also learnt that I can pick myself up and hold my head high each time I fail and to keep trying until I succeed,” she said. Katherine Ler Kai Ting “enjoyed giving back to society and bringing smiles to the faces of people in need in the many service and volunteer projects.” Community service is one of the components of the PGA. GGS congratulate all recipients on their achievements and for being role models for fellow Guiding members.

Philippine Girl Scouts Join Olave 2015 International Camp

Five Cadet Girl Scouts (CGS) and four adult leaders from the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) participated in the Olave 2015 International Camp from 1 – 8 August, at Blackland Farm, East Grinstead, UK.

The event was organized by the Girl Guiding Sussex East and intended for Girl Guides, Girl Scouts, and Senior

Section from around the world. Activities were based around the six zones: Earth, Wind, Fire, Water, Sports, and Creativity.

The Philippine campers' skills, talents, and friendliness shone throughout the international camp. CGS Demie Fresco won in the camp talent show contest with amazing performance of the song "Flashlight." “This international camp was full of fun. GSP participants will forever fondly remember this camp experience!” said CGS Rachel Aglaua.

Senior and Ranger Camp in Japan On 2 – 5 August 2015, Senior and Ranger Camp was held at Togakushi Girl Scout Center in Nagano under the theme of "Science". This was a national level camp and 200 Senior Girl Scouts and 58 Ranger Girl Scouts gathered from all over Japan.

The programme included sessions facilitated by experts on science, outdoor cooking, charcoal making, making musical instruments from bamboo and so on. Participants learned scientific views through experiences and worked on activity sheets. One of the experts was a staff of Nagano Local Meteorological Office. Participants learnt about the weather and increased their understanding on scientific thinking. After the session, they were challenged to predict the weather and found that all weather forecasts were provided based on scientific evidence. Girl Scouts who joined a programme to think about science through making Udon noodles said, "At first, I could not understand how we think about science through noodle making. But through the experience, I found that we are using scientific thinking in normal cooking. Depending on the type of flour, amount of salt and/or water added to the flour, we need to change the length of time required to boil the noodles. That is the science." The camp provided an opportunity for the Girl Scouts to raise awareness that science is not a difficult study, and scientific thinking is utilized in everyday life.

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Bangladesh’s 12th

National Guide Camp Seven-day “Twelfth National Guide Camp 2015” was organized by Bangladesh Girl Guides Association (BGGA) in its Camp Area at Baroipara in Kaliakoir, Gazipur, from 2 – 8 September 2015; with more than 1,000 Guides, Guiders, Commissioners, local and district-level BGGA Guide Members aged 11 to 16 representing different schools within nine BGGA regions took part in the Camp. Theme of this year’s Camp was “Let us build a prosperous country amidst global friendship”. Referring to National Education Policy, Government of Bangladesh (GOB) Education Secretary called on all concerned to expand Girl Guides program and boost up Guiding activities in all schools, colleges, madrassas, universities and technical institutes; he expected all Guides to be worthy citizens of the country. Earlier, the Secretary visited the sub-camps and observed various gadgets (chair, table, utensils container, cloth-stand, etc.) made by the Guides representing different BGGA regions; he spoke highly of the Guides programs and performance. Main Camp was divided in nine sub-camps, and the Guides took active interest in all the programmed events including visit to Nandon Park and Ansar Academy which was one of prime camp agenda.

Camp programs included hoisting of national flag and Girl Guides flag, physical exercise, gadget making, etc., as well as orientation sessions on primary health care and personal hygiene, dos and don’ts during adolescence, drug addiction impact and way-out, stop the violence, women leadership and empowerment, Free Being Me, etc. In his speech at campfire, the GOB Minister of War of Liberation Affairs, Muktijoddha Mr. AKM Mojammel Haque, MP, reminded all of Bangladesh government’s extreme priority attached to the women in all plans and programs. He called on the Girl Guides

authority to mobilize the Guides towards community service along different government development initiatives with due cooperation from the relevant government agencies. Later, the Minister participated and enjoyed the colourful musical soiree performed by the Guides coming from various BGGA regions. BGGA National Commissioner Sayeda Rehana Imam chaired the function; welcome address came from Ms. Rahenara Begum, Regional Commissioner of BGGA Chittagong and BGGA Khulna Regional Commissioner Ms. Mousufa Begum offered vote of thanks.

Girl Scouts of Japan Empower Young Women by Asia Pacific Project 3L in 2014

Girl Scouts of Japan (GSJ) implemented three sessions to empower young women for Project 3L in 2014. GSJ explored current needs of young women and needed skills through three sessions, and established a platform of programmes for young women. Sessions were held in September 2014 at Girl Scout House in Tokyo, and in December and March at Kobe-City Youth Hall in Hyogo with the cooperation of Hyogo Council. There were 54 participants in total and they developed skills to speak out, to make positive choices and to be a leader at the various situations. The first session was facilitated by young women with WAGGGS' Global Trainers' support who visited Japan for Free Being Me training. And some young women who participated this session became the facilitators of the second and third sessions. This provided good opportunities to implement the skills they learnt and evaluate it to develop further. Based on the first and second sessions' evaluation, GSJ developed a pilot programme for young women. It was implemented at the third session under the theme of "Find out your strength to develop skills needed as a Leader". Hiromi Sakamoto (Troop 33, Hyogo Council), who attended the second and third sessions, said, "It was the first time to hear the words of peer-education and facilitator. It was a good opportunity to consider the role of facilitator and how to elicit diverse opinions. I have been working as a Leader for girls and used to work with girls, but no experience to facilitate a group of young women in the same age. It was different and difficult. During the session, there was an activity where team members must cooperate. Then, I had an order secretly to act a ‘sabotage’

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person who retards progress by not cooperating with other team members. Team members other than me cooperated well and tried to kindly listen to me no matter what I said. They worked hard to understand me and make me involved as a team member. As I was just acting the role, I could see their kind support and sincerely appreciated their efforts. I really wanted to cooperate with them, but I had to keep disturbing. As a result, we could understand why it is important to be a good facilitator through the experience. We will meet with uncooperative people in society, and it will take time to elicit their cooperation and we need to keep supporting them. Through the sessions, I realized that each of us needs to develop skills. Developing facilitator skills as a part of empowerment will bring further development of Girl Scouting. Also, I think if we, young Leaders, could involve actively in Girl Scouting, we can be role models and bring positive development for Girl Scouting." GSJ will continue the study on programme development for young women. And GSJ aims to develop programmes to increase presentation skills, facilitation skills, leadership, and management skills for young women.

The Girl Scouts of the Philippines Holds “A

Day with the Girl Scouts with Special Needs”

The Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) held its annual event, “A Day with the Girl Scouts with Special Needs” at the GSP National Headquarters, Manila, Philippines, on 23 July 2015. This is in celebration of the 37th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NPDR) Week with the theme: "Health and Wellness Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Toward Inclusive Development for All.” “GSP supports all endeavours that promote opportunities for Persons with Special Needs. We believe that both moral and legal frameworks are readily available, and enforcement of laws and policies are equally important in ensuring that Persons with

Special Needs receive the attention they deserve,” said GSP National President Susan Locsin. 93 Girl Scouts, 119 Troop leaders, parents, council, and regional staff from Northern, Central, and Southern Luzon Regions and National Headquarters gathered to celebrate the day. Girl Scout participants visited the National Heritage Center and enjoyed learning at the interactive museum. Simultaneous activities on health and wellness were offered: proper handwashing, facilitated by Dr. Epifania Dungca from Tarlac Council and GSP’s Touch (a simple back massage), facilitated by Ladie Bainza, Trainer from Makati Council. A Do-It-Yourself crafts showcased the creativity of the Girl Scouts with special needs. Their talents were shown through dancing and singing. Gespie, the official GSP mascot, performed a dance number to the delight and appreciation of the audience. Museo Pambata’s shadow play elicited interest from the girls. “When I watch these children dance together, I can’t help myself from getting emotional, because I can really see genuine smiles and pure happiness from their faces. There’s a lot to know more and see from them. They have talent and magic that can captivate your heart,” said Cadet GS Katrina Lerios, now in her third year of volunteering for this event.

Korean International Service Camp in Mongolia 2015

National Young Leader’s Committees of Girl Scouts of Korea (GSK) carried out an International Service Camp in Mongolia at the Mary Ward Center, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from June 30 – July 8 2015 which was partly

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sponsored by FAPW. The camp was implemented as a joint program with 12 Korean Girl Scouts and 13 Mongolian Girl Scouts and 70 children, partly with ten French Catholic Scouts, to have an aim at activating Mongolian Girl Scouting. Korean young leaders organized troop meetings for the Mongolian youth and girls to enjoy the Girl Scout programs such as craft, science, music, art and physical activities and local youth and children who participated in the programs earned some interest patches. They also cleaned and repaired facilities in the meeting places and painted the stairs and walls of troop meeting place of Mary Ward Center. Moreover, they built the ger, the Mongolian traditional nomadic house, for one underprivileged family with the financial support from GSK and Korean Young leaders’ fund-raising. This family was delighted to get a new house and appreciated the Girl Scouts.

During the Camp, Korean young leaders developed their leadership by planning and implementing the programs by themselves as well as global citizenship by exchange program. For example, Korean, Mongolian and French youth leaders learned and shared each country’s scouting and culture through cultural exchange program like song, dance games as well as general conversation and opinion sharing. Moreover, Korean and Mongolian youth leaders introduced each country’s food such as Khuushur, stir-fried rice cake and noodle and so on. Participants felt some difficulty at first because of language barrier and cultural difference, but warm-heartedness and friendship based on the spirit of Girl Scouts among Korean and Mongolian Girl Scouts made the project as a successful and joyful one with uniting them into one. Mongolian Girl Scouts will keep learning the spirit of Girl Scouts and growing as years go by. Korea National Young Leaders’ Committee will keep trying to exchange with Mongolian Girl Scouts and to

develop networking with other MOs to make this camp as a more international one.

Training Workshop at Bangladesh Girl Guides Association, Supported by the Girl

Scouts of the Philippines A week-long training workshop ran from 9 – 16 September 2015, was organized at the Guide House National Headquarters by Bangladesh Girl Guides Association (BGGA) under the auspices of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP), Asia Pacific Region. Commissioners, Guiders, Rangers, Trainers, Youth Leaders and BGGA Office staff took part in the training course. Four international trainers from the GSP, Dr. Fe Violeta B Taring (Central Board Member, National Training Committee Chairperson), Dr. Josefina M Parentela, (National Secretary, National Program Committee, Vice Chairperson), Dr. Psyche M Sucaldita (Central Board Member, National Training Committee, Vice Chairperson), and Ma. Carmen B Gerundio (National Training Director, Girl Scouts of Philippines) ran the workshop. The training course featured the topics/issues like Eliminate, Reduce, Raise, personality assessment, volunteer-staff partnership, expectation check, directions for the review, girls and young women today, program framework, badge work, out of doors, patrol system by age level, and implementation of the program. The participants showed keen interest in the all exercises, taking active part in the discussion sessions, enjoying the proceedings and making the event vibrant and enterprising; grey areas were well spotted and facilitators suggested suitable responses during implementation according to the situation and context. Syeda Rehana Imam, BGGA National Commissioner, and Dr. Fe Violeta B Taring, GSP, jointly distributed post-training certificates amongst the participating trainees. During their official tour in Dhaka on account of the training course, GSP representatives also paid a courtesy visit to Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. AAMS Arefin Siddiqui at the Varsity campus on 16 September. Syeda Rehana Imam, BGGA, led the team. They had a very cordial discussion on various aspects and features of education system in Bangladesh and the Philippines.

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Later, the Filipino trainers presented a Certificate of Honour to the Dhaka University VC; and the VC also reciprocated on his part by offering DU pleasantries to the team.

Olave Program Update in Australia

The Olave Program is for members of Guiding in Australia aged 18 – 30, and focuses on the three aspects of community, adventure and self-development. Olaves take opportunities to:

make a positive difference in their communities through volunteering, service and advocacy;

challenge themselves through new experiences especially in the outdoors and internationally; and

develop skills and knowledge to enable them to grow as individuals.

The Olave Program is underpinned by the Guide Promise and Law and the innovations and traditions of Australian Guiding. Following on from a two-year review of the Olave Program, the National Olave Program Committee has developed an online mobile-friendly Olave Program Resource, which is easy to use anywhere, anytime! Check it out: www.olaveprogramresource.org.au The Olave Program Resource has tons of information about the new Olave Program Framework, including lots of ideas for activities for Olaves and Peer Groups under each of the aspects of Community, Adventure and Self-development. It has a large new section about Peer Groups – setting out everything Olaves need to know about how Peer Groups start, operate and thrive. The Olave Program is almost 20 years old and there is an Olave Program history section to learn about how it has grown and developed over the years. The Olave Program Resource also provides very easy access to lots of general Guiding information and resources including Guide

Lines, the Code of Conduct, Adult Endeavours and more. All the information about the Olave Program Awards is also in the Resource, including detailed sections on self and peer assessment. The Olave Program Resource will be updated regularly so that all the information is correct and up-to-date. There is also a downloadable PDF version available at: http://www.girlguides.org.au/public/files/olave/Olave%20Program%20Resource%202015.pdf Girl Guides Australia is grateful for the financial assistance received from Friends of Asia Pacific WAGGGS Membership Benefit Fund which assisted with the development of the Olave Program Resource.

A Japanese Young Woman Enjoys Girl

Guiding in Thailand A Japanese young Leader, Ikumi Nomura, is in Thailand for seven months as a Japanese teacher. She joined Girl Guide/Girl Scout activities in Thailand and was excited to experience the strong sisterhood of international Girl Guides/Girl Scouts. "I joined Girl Scouts of Japan when I was a six year old as a Brownie Girl Scout. Since then, I have been enjoying Girl Scouting for 22 years. This year, I had an opportunity to work in Thailand as a Japanese teacher to support a Thai teacher for seven months from August 2015 to March 2016. I was sent to a school in Bangkok, Thailand by the Japan Foundation which is an organization sending Japanese to support Japanese language education in Asian countries and providing Japanese language courses for foreigner in Japan. I teach Japanese for middle school and high school students. For this opportunity, I thought it would be great to meet with Girl Guides/Girl Scouts sisters in Thailand. Through Girl Scouts of Japan, I could reach Girl Guides (Girl Scouts) Association of Thailand (GGAT). GGAT warmly welcomed me and invited me to join in

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their activities. I am very glad to have this opportunity and enjoying every activity in Thailand.

In Thailand, Girl Guiding/Girl Scouting is delivered based on schools and it is a part of school curriculum. It is completely different from Japan, while we have troops in communities. I attended Free Being Me Camp held at a school in Phitsanulok. Because it is a part of school activity, all girls who go to the school including non-members can experience WAGGGS' programme such as Free Being Me. I thought it is a benefit to have Girl Guiding/Girl Scouting school-based. It is enjoyable to experience and exchange the similarities and differences of Girl Guiding/Girl Scouting. I would like to continue Guiding activities in Thailand. It will develop my future Girl Scouting in Japan. I appreciate the kind hospitality and support of Girl Guides (Girl Scouts) Association of Thailand."

Ikumi Nomura, Troop 58, Osaka Council

Philippine Trainers Guide GSP New Professional Staff

Thirty-four new staff of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) acquired Girl Scouting knowledge and skills during a three-day activity-packed Basic Course for Staff from 28 – 30 September 2015, at the Helena Z Benitez National Program (HZBNPTC) and Training Center, Tagaytay City, Philippines. The course aimed to deepen their appreciation of the values and principles of the organization, that they may become competent and committed members of the Girl Scouting Movement. The training was conducted by some members of the senior staff with the full support of National Executive Director Ma. Dolores Santiago. Chief Trainer was Assistant National Executive Director (ANED) for Human Resources and Administration Rebecca Basañes with ANED for Program Myra Contessa Sarmenta and Finance Director Ma. Vina Bautista as co-trainers. Assisting trainers were Training Director Ma. Carmen Gerundio,

Personnel Director Roselyn Davadilla, Publications Head Bella Celeste Velasco, Training Technical Assistant Priscilla Moonyeen Montañez, and Program Technical Assistant Jade Villanueva. HZBNPTC staff Jennifer Alvarado thanked the management on behalf of the staff. In her response, she mentioned how the training equipped them with skills to help them perform their tasks. Quezon City Council Executive Geraldine Talavera was thankful for the experience, not only for the knowledge gained, but also for the friendship formed during the event.

38

th National Council Session and Election

of Bangladesh Girl Guides Association The four day 38

th National Council Session

and Election of Bangladesh Girl Guides Association (BGGA) took place at BGGA National Headquarters from 19 – 22 November 2015. Rita Datto, Local Association Commissioner, local Ranger Councillor and Ranger Guides of Chittagong Region presided over the session. As many as 300 Councillors comprising BGGA National Executive Committee members, Commissioners, members of various sub-committees, Councillors representing all the BGGA Regions, Guides, Rangers, Youth Leaders and heads of different Educational Institutions participated in the session and election. Begum Salma Jahan, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, was present on the occasion as an observer. The participating Councillors elected the 24 members of the BGGA National Executive Committee through secret ballot on 21 November for a three-year term spanning from 2015 to 2018. Sayeda Rehana Imam, incoming National Commissioner of BGGA, was elected as National Commissioner for a second term.

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Dr Aasma Banu and Ms Farzana Sultana were elected unopposed as BGGA Treasurer and Youth Leader respectively. Other elected members for the next term are: Prof. Dr Yasmin Ahmed, Ms Serajum Munira, Ms Rahenara Begum, Ms Mousufa Begum, Ms Monwara Begum, Ms Nurjahan Ara Begum, Begum Faizun Nahar Shelly, Ms Farida Yasmin, Ms Nirupa Dewan, Ms Mahfia Parvin, Ms Rowshan Islam, Ms Bela Rani Sarkar, Ms Shaheda Hossain Choudhury, Ms Rita Jesmin, Ms Chand Sultana, Ms Rowshan Ara Khan, Ms Mariya Yasmin, Dr Razia Sultana Rosy, Ms Kshamarani Das, Khandokar Afroza Begum and Ms Ferdousi Akhter Dolly. On conclusion of the election, Ms Zarina Akhter conducted the Oath of Office and Secrecy to the newly elected BGGA Office Bearers and members. A two-day business session considered and approved the Audit Report for the Year 2013-14 and the Revised Budget for Fiscal 2015-16 involving the BGGA head office and all the regions. In addition, the 38th Session determined and finalised Subscription Rate and/or Fees for BGGA quota, World Thinking Day, etc., in view of Sub-Committee Report and Association’s decision.

Cambodian Guides’ Day Care Center Girl Guides Association of Cambodia (GGAC) has long-established Srey Praseur Day Care Center in Takeo Province to care for children whose parents are poor so that they can go to work without worrying about their children. By providing the day care center, GGAC helps to reduce poverty rate in Cambodia as poor parents can earn income through working instead of having to stay home to care for the children themselves. GGAC’s day care center

has teachers and cook to care for the children from age three to six, and is open daily from 7am to 5pm. GGAC has been providing the day care center for the past 15 years. As Girl Guides Association of Cambodia’s mission is to give opportunities to girls and young women and to unleash their full potential as responsible citizens of the country and of the world, we will continue to help the poor by helping to care for their children while they go to work. GGAC also has Girl Guides from Singapore, Malaysia, France, England, and Australia to visit and do activities at the day care center every year.

Girl Guides Singapore – Halloween

“Escape Room” More than 100 Girl Guides, Young Adults and Guiders participated in the first-ever Escape Room Activity organised by the Young Adult Branch of Girl Guides Singapore. The Escape Room Activity is a physical adventure game where teams of players are trapped in rooms, which they have to escape from within a set time limit. To escape, they have to solve a series of puzzles and clues in the room which are built on a theme. The theme of the Escape Room Activity was that of a nightmare which trapped the players. The idea of adopting the Escape Room Activity as a crowdfunding project sparked off from a Young Adult Branch brainstorm to seek new ways of raising funds for its Branch. Funds were also needed to support an upcoming service learning trip to a Day Care Center in Takeo Province, run by the Girl Guides Association of Cambodia. Participants worked very closely together during the game. Girl Guides from Teck Whye Secondary School shared that they found the series of puzzles tricky but interesting and fun. Teamwork and communication played a big part in solving the puzzles. The Girl Guides enjoyed the Escape Room thoroughly, with many hoping to conduct similar activities for their peers and Girl Guide Company in their respective schools.

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December 2015

Young Adult Branch Commissioner, Ms Valerie Pang shared, “I am glad that the Young Adult Branch managed to combine all five elements of WAGGGS’ Educational

Method into this activity. Not only did the Young Adults have fun preparing it, participants also enjoyed the activity. Most important of all, all our efforts have contributed to a meaningful purpose.”

Due to the overwhelming response, the Escape Room Activity was run for an additional day, successfully raising enough funds for the Young Adult Branch and their service learning project.

Sangam Become a Sangam Volunteer or Intern!

In 2016, Sangam is turning 50! And you can apply today to be a Sangam Volunteer or Sangam Intern during our 50th Birthday season! Applications are due 31st December 2015! Download the application form here: http://bit.ly/1OPXx5V

Arts 4 Change, March 2016 Book your place for our amazing Arts 4 Change event from 20 - 29 March 2016. Melinda Caroll, popular Girl Scout singer/songwriter from the USA, will be joining! Learn how we can use art as a tool for social change! Email guestservices@sangam.wagggs.org for more information today!

Friends of Asia Pacific WAGGGS

6th

FAPW Regional Gathering The Asia Pacific Regional (APR) Committee has invited Friends of Asia Pacific WAGGGS (FAPW) to hold a Regional Gathering for FAPW members during the 12th Asia Pacific Regional Conference in Kathmandu, Nepal in 2016. FAPW members will join the APR conference delegates at the Opening Ceremony, Triennial Report of the AP Region and AP Regional Night and Bazaar. This will be the 6

th FAPW Regional Gathering

and will be held at Hotel Yak & Yeti in Kathmandu, from 29 – 31 August 2016. The main objectives of the event are to welcome new and upgrading members, to meet new and old friends, to conduct a FAPW business meeting, to explore the rich culture of Nepal and to participate in some of the program of the 12th Asia Pacific Regional Conference. Nepal Scouts have planned an interesting program for the 6

th FAPW Regional Gathering,

with the theme “Hamro Danphe”- Connect, Grow, Impact. They have arranged for some spectacular pre- and post- event tours and Sangam is offering a special event after the Gathering for FAPW members to celebrate Sangam’s 50

th birthday.

FAPW Philippines In November, FAPW Philippines held a very enjoyable and successful event especially for youth members. Over 70 girls became Crystal members at this event. In addition, FAPW Philippines welcomed two new Silver members, three Gold and two Major Donors.

Silver Elephant and Hansa Putta Awards to

Low Lih Jeng, Asia Pacific Regional Committee

On 31 October 2015, Low Lih Jeng, Chair, Asia Pacific Regional Committee WAGGGS, received the Hansa Puttu (Twin Swans) Award from Sri Lanka Girl Guides Association

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(SLGGA). The Hansa Puttu Award is the highest award for SLGGA and this is the first time it has been awarded to a non-member of SLGGA for being “a very special friend of the SLGGA supporting, encouraging and assisting the SLGGA whenever the need arose and she was approached for such assistance” and for “contributions to the Girl Guide movement in general and to the Asia Pacific Region of WAGGGS in particular”. Bharat Scouts and Guides of India (BSG) conferred the Silver Elephant Award to Low Lih Jeng, in recognition of service of most exceptional character to the Movement. The award ceremony was held on 8 December 2015 in Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Silver Elephant is the highest national award in BSG. The award was presented by the Honourable President of India, Shri Pranab Muhkerjee.

On receiving both Awards, Jeng acknowledged "I am totally humbled. Asia Pacific has done well because of the efforts of every leader and every girl in the Asia Pacific Region. I thank everyone who has supported the AP Region and worked together for our girls and young women. This gives me great encouragement to continue to do my best for the Asia Pacific Region."

Welcome to Aarihant Rai and Welcome Back to Prerana Shakya. Development

Executive On a happy note, the AP Family welcomed with great delight, the birth of Aarihant Rai, to Prerana Shakya (Development Executive for SAARC) and Aayush Rai, on 23 September. And

we welcomed Prerana back to work from maternity leave on 7 December.

Farewell to Karen Chatto, Development Executive

It is with heavy hearts that we will say farewell to Development Executive Karen Chatto who will be finishing as an AP staff member at the end of January 2016. Karen has given much to the Region especially in the work with Myanmar and Pacific MOs. Karen also played a key role in rolling out WAGGGS’ Educational Programme and Adult Training Learning and Development our Region. AP Region thanks Karen for her dedication and going beyond the call of duty on countless occasions. The impact of Karen's contributions will go far beyond the short two years that Karen has been with us. Karen says “working for WAGGGS, but in particular the AP Region, has been another amazing adventure in my Guiding journey. I have loved meeting all my Guiding/Girl Scouting sisters when visiting and working with our MOs, and it’s been fantastic to see the development in our MOs. I wish AP Region all the best in its continued growth and spread of the spirit of Guiding.” Karen will continue to be active in Guiding – as a volunteer in her local area, as an accredited WAGGGS Facilitator, and as a supporter of projects within the AP Region.

On behalf of the Asia Pacific Regional Committee and staff – we

wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and all the very best for the coming year. We look forward to working with you in

2016!