Over 1,800 Girl Guides take part in IGGNITE2017 camp
By William O'Connor
GIRL Guides took part in Ireland’s biggest ever international Girl Guide camp, in Rockwell College, Cashel, Co Tipperary, from 30 July to August 6 this year.
Guides from Lucan were among 1,800 Girl Guides taking part in IGGNITE2017, which 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.
“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,” says IGGNITE2017 Camp Chief Jenny Gannon.
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.
“There was a serious side to camp too,” says Ms Gannon. “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.
“The girls were encouraged to ‘BE’ active, adventurous, unique, inventive, limitless and to be survivors and advocates. 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.”
Irish Girl Guides welcomes new members from age 5+ and adult volunteer leaders from age 18+. See www.irishgirlguides.ie
TAGS Lucan
