For more than a century, Irish Girl Guides has played a powerful role in Irish society. From local community halls to National Camps and international projects, the organisation has stayed true to one core purpose: Giving Girls Confidence to grow, lead, and shape their own futures.

In a world where young people face increasing pressure, Irish Girl Guides offers a supportive and safe, girl-led space where learning happens through experience, friendship, and fun.

What Irish Girl Guides stands for

Irish Girl Guides’ mission is to enable girls and young women to develop to their fullest potential as responsible citizens of the world.

Everything the Guides do is designed to help girls discover who they are, what they care about, and what they are capable of achieving. Giving Girls Confidence is not just a slogan; it is embedded in every activity, Badge, and challenge.

A Journey for every age

Irish Girl Guides welcomes girls and young women, offering a clear progression as members grow and develop.

•           *Ladybirds (5–7 years) learn through play, imagination, and simple teamwork
•           *Brownies (7–10 years) build friendships, curiosity, and independence
•           *Guides (10–14 years) explore leadership, responsibility, and outdoor skills
•           *Senior Branch (14–30 years) focuses on personal development, advocacy, and leadership

Each stage of the non-formal education programme is carefully designed to match a girl’s development, ensuring she is always challenged, supported, and encouraged.

Learning by doing

Unlike formal education, Guiding is based on learning through experience. Girls take part in activities that range from camping and hiking to creative arts, science projects, community service, and global awareness initiatives.

Badges and awards recognise effort and growth. This approach helps girls build resilience and confidence in their own abilities, skills that serve them well in school, work, and life.

Community, service, and social impact

The Irish Girl Guides are deeply connected to their communities. Members regularly take part in service projects, from environmental clean-ups to intergenerational programmes that support older people.

These experiences help girls understand their role in the wider world and show them that their actions matter. The organisation also introduces girls to global citizenship and social responsibility, reinforcing the idea that confident girls can help create positive change.

Why Giving Girls Confidence matters today

Confidence is about knowing your worth, trusting your abilities, and believing that your voice deserves to be heard.

Guiding has always focused on helping girls develop independence, resilience, and a strong sense of self. By Giving Girls Confidence, the organisation helps create stronger individuals, healthier communities, and a more equal society.

Irish Girl Guides offers a safe and fun space where girls can be themselves, try new things, and grow without judgment. The organisation has supported thousands of girls and young women across the country, guided by trained volunteers who believe deeply in the potential of every girl.

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

As she concludes her six-year term as Irish Girl Guides Chief Commissioner, Amanda O’Sullivan reflects on the experiences, challenges and achievements that shaped her time in leadership. In this interview, she looks back on what she learned, what she found most meaningful, and the moments that will stay with her.

What different roles have you held before becoming Chief?

I have held various roles in Irish Girl Guides (IGG), from being a Unit Leader to being Chair of Brownie Branch Committee which was my first introduction to National Committees in IGG. Then I took on the role of Regional Commissioner which introduced me to the governance aspect of IGG as well as working closing with staff and volunteers. I also completed a role as Assistant Chief Commissioner which allowed me a window into the role of the Chief Commissioner.

What motivated you to take on the role of Chief?

I took on the role of Chief Commissioner based on my above experiences in IGG and how I felt I had the skills to progress the governance element that was required as we moved from an unincorporated association to a Company Limited by Guarantee. I knew I had the skills to chair a committee as Chair of the IGG Board, and I am passionate about remembering why we are all involved in a youth organisation and thus supporting the development of our youth members.

What have you learned during your six years as Chief? What has been the biggest challenge, and how did you overcome it?

What have I learnt from my role as Chief Commissioner? I have learnt that IGG and its Leaders and youth members are resilient and resourceful. This was most noticeable during my first year when we were all impacted by the COVID pandemic and the shutdown of the country.

Leaders adapted by developing resources to share in various ways with their youth members and their families to maintain that connection and to provide support at this very tough time for all. This was definitely one of my biggest challenges that the organisation was greeted with, as there was no preparation for this and no forwarding planning. We had to think on our feet and think fast as guidance was being sought on a daily basis from staff and volunteers.

During this time, we did not allow the recognition that the girls deserved to be postponed: the National Guide Award ceremonies went online with Award packs sent out in advance of an online ceremony to recognise our youth members’ achievements.

This was all thanks to the dedication and commitment of the Regional Commissioners. Other National events were also planned and delivered at National level showing our ability to adapt and develop new skills to support the fantastic youth members and their families.

What has been the most rewarding experience?

I have worked with a fantastic staff team that support the volunteers’ vision and plans for the organisation. There have been challenging times during 2020 and when we had other vacancies, so when we have a full complement all working towards the one goal it supports the development of the organisation, and so I am very thankful to them all.

I have some very special memories from my time as Chief Commissioner which include travelling around the country to Regional Conferences and meeting Leaders, to presenting the National Guide Awards online in small groups and eventually back to a National in-person event. There have been many lovely cards and notes received along the way from members which are cherished memories. I had the absolute pleasure in awarding a service pin to a Leader in Cork which was very impactful for all involved due to the circumstance but highlighted the importance of saying ‘Thank You’ to our volunteers.

I had the honour to represent IGG at two World Conferences — one was completely online and the other was in person. I also with a group of three other Leaders took 23 amazing young women on a trip to Switzerland where we all explored together, had fun including the balloons and ducks challenge, and made friendships for life. There are so many other highlights and experiences from meeting girls and young women who are thriving and loving being a member of IGG and that we are all having an impact on, to meeting the volunteers who make this happen.

My term has finished on a high with the first in-person International Camp in 2025 which was organised by the incoming Chief Commissioner, Aisling Claffey Healion, assisted by Sarah O’Donovan who is one of the two Assistant Chief Commissioners.

I could not have undertaken this role without the members of my own Girl Guide Unit supporting me and this has been essential to me along this journey.

Do you have any advice for the new Chief?

I would say to Aisling that she needs to take all offers of help and assistance and to use the amazing group of women that we have in the organisation to support her in the journey ahead.

There are so many fantastic memories ahead and it is really important to appreciate these and remember the reason why you are involved in IGG.

Continue to promote the amazing work that is completed and the impact that Irish Girl Guides has on the lives and futures of the girls and young women who become members of IGG.

Amanda’s reflections highlight the commitment of volunteers, the resilience of members, and the strength of the IGG community. We thank her for her leadership and contribution over the past six years and wish her well as she continues her Guiding journey in new ways.

To learn more about the incoming Chief Commissioner, stay tuned for our next interview.

by Celia Melcus

In today’s connected world, it’s more important than ever to help young people understand what it means to be a global citizen. Global Citizenship Education (GCE) gives girls the knowledge and confidence to think for themselves, care about others, and take meaningful action both locally and globally.

In the Irish Girl Guides, we bring GCE to life through our Global Awareness, Community & Teamwork (GACT) programme, which is a central part of our Journey Programme. With its focus on equality, sustainability, and social justice, GACT helps girls grow into confident leaders and active citizens.

What is Global Citizenship Education?

GCE is about much more than facts and figures. It is about encouraging curiosity, compassion, and critical thinking. Irish Aid describes it as “a lifelong educational process” that helps us better understand our fast-changing, deeply interconnected world.
It encourages respect for diversity, inclusion, climate justice, peace, and human rights.

GCE empowers girls to:

• *Think critically about global and local issues
• *Understand how their actions impact others
• *Challenge stereotypes and question assumptions
• *Act with empathy and purpose to create positive change

These values align closely with the principles of Guiding.

Why is Global Citizenship Education so important in Irish Girl Guides?

As part of WAGGGS (the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts), Irish Girl Guides belongs to a worldwide community of over 10 million girls across more than 145 countries. This global sisterhood reminds us that our lives are connected and that every voice counts.

GCE in Irish Girl Guides is seen in many ways:

• *Our Mission: “To enable girls and young women to develop to their fullest potential as responsible citizens of the world.”
• *Our Vision: “A future which is sustainable, diverse and equal.”
• *Our Promise and Law, which encourage girls to try their best, help others, and make the world a better place.
• *Our commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 3 (Good Health), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water), as we have Special Focus Badges related to these topics.
• *GCE-themed stories in Trefoil News, inspiring girls to reflect and take action.
• *Our Gaisce Dual Award Programme, through which many of our members complete activities related to GCE.

Guiding the Next Generation of Changemakers

At Irish Girl Guides, we are proud to raise girls who care deeply about the world, ask thoughtful questions, and lead with courage and kindness.

From local community clean-ups to exploring gender equality through storytelling, every GACT activity is an opportunity for girls to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and become changemakers.

Through Global Citizenship Education and our wider Guiding programme, we are helping shape a generation that’s ready to speak up, step forward, and drive change together.

Shauna Harris

What is Leave No Trace?

In Guiding, a love for the outdoors and respect for the environment are core values. But we often say we practice it, but what are the 7 Leave No Trace principles? And how can we teach them to children in a meaningful way?

This guide introduces the 7 Leave No Trace principles through fun, hands-on outdoor ethics activities and games, perfect for Ladybirds, Brownies, and Guides, and a great refresher for your own knowledge too!

1. Plan ahead and prepare

When we plan outdoor adventures, we help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone while also reducing our impact on the environment. Poor planning can lead to damaged landscapes and affect the outdoor experience.

The dress-up game

Have a bag filled with clothes and items (e.g., sunscreen, bug spray, map) both fantastic and practical. Each girl picks one and explains what it is and why it might be useful on a trip.

Chain story

In a circle, the first person begins: “I went for a walk and I put on…” adding one item. The next person continues the list by adding another item. Great for memory and thinking about preparedness.

2. Be considerate of others

Being courteous outdoors means everyone can enjoy the natural environment. Loud noises, pets off-lead, or trampling over areas can disturb both people and wildlife.

Can you hear?

Lie quietly outside, close your eyes and listen. Can you hear the wind, birds, nature noises? Ask then if you can hear human-made sounds like cars, construction, or planes. Repeat using smell and touch, exploring different sensory experiences outdoors.

Whisper game

Pair up. One girl is blindfolded while the other gives quiet verbal instructions to guide her around. Repeat with louder voices or groups speaking at once. Talk about how noise levels affect others.

3. Respect farm animals and wildlife

When outdoors, we’re entering the homes of wild animals. Our presence can stress or even harm them. By respecting their space, we help protect biodiversity and natural ecosystems.

Creatures’ homes

Find a good place for a worm, spider, beetle or even a squirrel. Use a hoop or string to mark the spot and discuss what makes it a suitable home for each of them (size, shape what it’s made of). Then get the

m to make a house for a bug, mammal, or bird. This game can be done in pairs or individually.

Hug a tree

Hug a tree and see how many arms it takes to reach around the big ones! How does it feel? Rough, smooth, dry? Talk about how trees are living and communicate underground through their roots. Stretch like a tree, sway in the breeze and stretch towards the sun!

4. Travel and camp responsibly

Moving carefully through nature helps prevent erosion, damage to plants, and harm to delicate ecosystems. Responsible travel also includes where and how we rest or camp.

Tread carefully

Create a barefoot obstacle course using safe and textured items and ground. This sensory expedition helps children notice how the ground feels and encourages mindful movement outdoors.

Shadow walk

Find your way around trying only to stay in the shadows. Hop, skip, or jump! Where did you end up? Was it off the path? Discuss why staying on trails protects plants and soil.

5. Leave what you find

Everything in nature has a role. Leaving items where we find them keeps ecosystems intact and preserves the experience for others. This includes rocks, plants, and natural artifacts.

Treasure hunt

Name a nature item to find (e.g., a snail, or dandelion). When one person finds it, everyone gathers to look. Use clear buckets for items they are allowed to pick up and examine. Alternatively, use a hoop to mark where the item is then examine with a magnifying glass. Replace all items and talk about why we replace them.

Mystery bag

Fill a soft bag with nature items (cone, leaf, shell, stone). Children guess the item by touch. For younger groups, name items and ask them to find them in nature and then return them.

6. Dispose of waste properly

Leaving litter in nature harms animals, pollutes water, and spoils beautiful places. It’s important to know how to sort and dispose of waste correctly, at home or in the wild.

Bin game

Designate four sides of an area as Green Bin, Black Bin, Brown Bin, and Dump. Call out items and have the girls run to where they would put it.
You can also have a bag of clean dry rubbish that you hold up.

Geocaching with litter

Place clean “rubbish” items around a space, where they can be found easily. Have a simple map of the area and place. Children have to find them and draw where they are on the map. This teaches awareness of how visible litter is in nature and how to collect it responsibly.

7. Protect nature from fire

Even small sparks can cause big wildfires. Learning about fire safety in nature is essential, especially during dry seasons.

Make your own fire for campfire time

Use handprints in red, orange, and yellow paint to create a paper fire. Once dry, put them in a tepee of sticks to make fake fire. Perfect for singing around, without lighting a real fire! We are also able to sing with our real fire.

What can start a fire?

Show pictures or examples of fire hazards: glass bottles, matches, disposable BBQs, gas canisters. Discuss how these can cause wildfires and what to do if you see a fire in nature.

Let’s Leave No Trace together

By introducing these simple, fun outdoor ethics activities to young explorers, we build a future generation that respects nature, protects wildlife, and Leaves No Trace behind.

Depending on the age of the girls, our Journey Programme adapts, but many of our activities take place outdoors. We even have an Outdoor Challenge Badge, which girls can earn by completing the Badge criteria and embracing outdoor adventure. The aim is for all Units, across all Branches, to get outdoors and put the seven Leave No Trace principles into practice.

Heather Burnett Niland

At Irish Girl Guides, we encourage our girls to engage in youth advocacy and make their voices heard. That’s why we are thrilled to share the story of one of our Lily Guides from Kildare!

At just 12 years old, Sophie participated in the Youth Advisory Group for the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth’s (DCEDIY) Action Plan 2024-2028. She is already making a significant impact on youth empowerment. Her experience has been nothing short of inspiring, and she is sharing it with us!

From passion to youth advocacy

From her strong interest in politics and young people’s rights, Sophie really wanted to join the Youth Advisory Group (Húb na nÓg) for the DCEDIY Action Plan 2024-2028.
“I am very interested in my rights, politics, and understanding what is happening for young people,” she explained.
By participating in this group, Sophie aimed to ensure that the voices of young people were represented and that important issues affecting her peers were addressed.

Building connections and youth empowerment skills

Through this experience, Sophie worked alongside young people from different organisations and attended meetings at Wynn’s Hotel in Dublin, as well as participating in eight virtual sessions. She forged lasting friendships and developed valuable leadership skills.
“I have made great friends and learned so much about politics. Being part of Húb na nÓg helped me grow and discover a great love for understanding society and how it affects young people,” she said.

Transforming the youth action plan

Sophie collaborated with the other Youth Advisory Group members to make the Action Plan accessible and engaging for young people. One of her proudest achievements was transforming a 64-page, black-and-white document into a vibrant, four-page summary.
“I had an amazing time sharing my ideas with the team, as I always wanted everything to be bright and easy to read. We also worked with a graphic designer who brought our ideas to life,” Sophie shared.

Inspiring the young leaders in Ireland

Sophie believes her involvement in the Action Plan can inspire other young girls in politics to explore leadership and advocacy roles. Recognizing the gender imbalance in politics, she hopes her experience encourages more girls to make their voices heard.
“As a young girl being part of this, I think it would inspire young people and young women to become involved in society. It’s great fun and a fantastic learning experience,” Sophie emphasized.

Empowering girls through leadership and advocacy

Sophie is incredibly grateful to the Irish Girl Guides for providing her with the opportunity to contribute to the DCEDIY Action Plan 2024-2028. Her journey is a testament to the power of young voices and the importance of encouraging girls to step into leadership roles.
Sophie also shared her advice for other girls interested in leadership: “Don’t be afraid to apply for opportunities like this. You never know where they might lead you!”

Sophie’s story is a powerful reminder that when girls are empowered to lead, they can drive meaningful change. Her journey demonstrates that youth advocacy is not just about speaking out but taking action, building connections, and inspiring future Leaders.
By encouraging young girls to engage in advocacy, we help pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. We can’t wait to see what Sophie accomplishes next!