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Irish Girl Guides is delighted to welcome Aisling Claffey Healion as the new Chief Commissioner. Aisling’s Guiding journey spans more than twenty years, from a young Guide to Senior Branch, to Leader, and most recently International Commissioner.
Guiding has shaped her confidence, friendships, and leadership skills, and today she steps into her new role with energy, vision, and deep gratitude for the Movement that shaped her.
In this interview, Aisling shares her aspirations, inspirations, and hopes for Irish Girl Guides’ future.
What different roles have you held before becoming Chief?
I’ve had the privilege of serving in a range of roles at both local and national levels. Most recently, I’ve spent the past three years as International Commissioner. That experience has given me a deep appreciation for the reach and relevance of Guiding around the world and for the incredible work our volunteers are doing right here at home. Previously, I’ve held roles such as a member of the Senior Branch Committee, a District Commissioners and a Regional Training Representative.
What motivated you to take on the role of Chief?
Guiding has given me so much – confidence, lifelong friendships, leadership skills and a sense of belonging. Stepping into the role of Chief Commissioner is my way of giving back to the organisation that has shaped my life. I’m motivated by the opportunity to help Irish Girl Guides (IGG) continue to grow, to be visible in every community and to make sure every girl has the chance to experience the same sense of adventure and empowerment that I did.
What has inspired you about Amanda’s leadership as Chief?
Amanda’s leadership has been a true example of dedication, vision and compassion. She led IGG through an extraordinary period of change, showing resilience and creativity while keeping members connected and supported. Her focus on collaboration and her ability to inspire confidence have left a strong foundation for the next phase of our journey. I’m grateful for her mentorship and her continued support as we transition leadership together.
What would you like to bring to the organisation in your new role?
I hope to bring energy, clarity and connection. My focus is on three key areas:
*Reigniting our Presence – ensuring IGG is recognised nationwide as the leading organisation for girls’ empowerment and leadership.
*Reconnecting with our Roots – bringing the outdoors and shared experiences back to the heart of our programme.
*Raising and Realigning our Standards – so every volunteer feels supported and every girl receives a consistently high-quality Guiding experience.
Above all, I want to foster a culture of accountability and care – where our leaders feel valued, our girls feel inspired, and our mission is always clear.
What do you hope to achieve for IGG during your time as Chief?
My goal is to strengthen our foundations while embracing innovation. I want to see membership continue to grow, our programmes evolve to meet girls’ changing needs, and our volunteers feel equipped and confident in their roles. My hope is to lead IGG into a new era of visibility, vitality, and unity. I want every girl in Ireland to know that Guiding is a space where she can belong, be herself, and build the skills and confidence to lead in her own way. I want to see IGG continue to grow as a modern and dynamic movement, one that celebrates its history while embracing the future with courage and optimism. My goal is simple: every girl who walks through our doors leaves believing she can change her world.
How do you see the organisation evolving in the next few years?
I see an organisation that is bold, inclusive and connected, one that continues to honour our traditions while embracing new opportunities. In the coming years, I believe we’ll see more collaboration across regions, deeper engagement with communities and a renewed focus on outdoor adventure and leadership development. Guiding has always adapted to the times, but our purpose remains the same: empowering every girl to be her best self.
Aisling begins her term with a strong vision for the future and a deep commitment to the values of Guiding. Her leadership promises growth, connection, and renewed energy across the organisation. We look forward to this exciting new chapter for Irish Girl Guides.
If you missed our interview with Amanda O’Sullivan, who served as Chief Commissioner for the past six years, you can read it here.
by Celia Melcus