NORTHSIDE girls took part in Ireland’s biggest-ever international Girl Guide camp, which took place recently in Rockwell College, Cashel, County Tipperary.Â
The girls from Ballybough, Portmarnock, Swords and Howth were among 1,800 Girl Guides taking part in IGGNITE2017.
The event attracted Girl Guides from as far away as the US, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Georgia, the Philippines and St Vincent and the Grenadines as well as England, Scotland and Finland.
The girls camped under canvas (despite the weather!) and took part in a wide range of games and activities designed to help them develop valuable life-skills.
Activities included water obstacle courses, kayaking, horse-riding, building rafts and rockets and playing quidditch as well as drama, music, body confidence, yoga, meditation and coding workshops.
IGGNITE2017 Camp Chief Jenny Gannon said:
“The girls had a fantastic experience, trying out all sorts of team-building activities as well as enjoying fun and friendship with girls from around the globe. Â
“There was a serious side to camp too. We partnered with Trócaire, Concern, UNICEF and Irish Aid to help the girls learn about the Sustainable Development Goals and how to stand up for refugees and to advocate for gender equality.
“It is hoped that their experience at IGGNITE2017 will ignite their imaginations and a passion to contribute to their local communities.
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Ms Gannon said the girls were encouraged to
‘BE’ active, adventurous, unique, inventive, limitless and to be survivors and advocates.Â
“They explored their potential to make a difference to the world around them at home and overseas by speaking out on issues that concern them and inspiring others to take action too,
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Meanwhile, Irish Girl Guides welcomes new members from age 5+ and adult volunteer leaders from age 18+. Visit www.irishgirlguides.ie for further information or phone 01-6683898.Â
