Kildare girls take part in Ireland’s biggest ever Girl Guide camp!

By Kim O'Leary Local Girl Guides from Kildare took part in Ireland’s biggest ever international Girl Guide camp, which took place in Rockwell College, Cashel, Co Tipperary from 30 July to 6 August 2017.  The Guides from Newbridge, Naas, Celbridge, Prosperous and Kildare were among 1,800 Girl Guides from 12 counties 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. IGGNITE 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.” 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. Ms Gannon said:“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.” She said:“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 for further information or telephone: 01 6683898.