Being a member of the Girl Guides National Youth Council has truly been one of the most enriching experiences of my life so far. I’ve had the opportunity to travel, meet new people, share my ideas, gain tangible skills and most of all had loads of fun along the way. Among the  countless perks, I have boiled them down to the top 5 ways being a member of the National Youth Council has benefited me:

1. I have had the opportunity to travel and meet girls from across the nation

One of my favorite things from the Youth Council are the inspiring girls and women I have met along the way. The members of the Youth Council are a truly unique group – we come from every corner of the country and represent myriad backgrounds. These bonds have led to lifelong friendships and partnerships for further volunteer initiatives.  Throughout my two years on the council, I’ve also had the opportunity to travel to Toronto, Banff, Fredericton and Montreal and connect with girls from right across the country. The National Youth Council is truly a unique group that strives to unite girls from all corners of the country.

2. I have learned how to voice my ideas and implement change

Safe spaces for girls to voice their ideas are a rare thing in this world. But that’s exactly what the National Youth Council offers. Over the course of Youth Council retreats and monthly conference calls, we brainstorm countless ideas on how we, as girl members, can influence what Guiding offers girls. But it it’s not just about us sharing our opinions. We are actually empowered to work side-by-side and develop these ideas into real tangible actions at the highest levels of our organization.

3. I have grown in confidence and in resolve
   

   National Youth Council member Nayah.

I feel capable in a way that I never thought possible before joining the National Youth Council. The Youth Council has taught me how to embrace challenge and change, set goals and make them realities, demonstrate initiative and take responsibility for progress. I have not only had to the opportunity to have lots of fun along the way, but learned how to persevere when times got tough. Through these lessons instilled in me throughout my journey on the council, I have grown tremendously in confidence and in resolve. The Youth Council is truly unique in creating a space where girls feel comfortable to step out of their comfort zone, embrace these lessons and begin to realize their potential.

4. I have gained leadership skills

While I’ve gained countless skills during my time on the council, it’s my leadership abilities that have experienced the most growth. I have embraced opportunities for public speaking, as well as taken on a leadership role in group situations. At our Annual General Meeting, the youth council played a leading role in planning and facilitating the girl forum. Every girl on the Youth Council has opportunities to take on a leadership role, in whatever capacity she is comfortable with.

5. I have gained experience that is beneficial and relevant to my future

Whether it be in the form of effective group organization, creating engaging presentations, learning how to network or how to accept challenge and change, my experiences on the Youth Council have definitely strengthened my university and scholarship applications. Whatever path I take in life, the Youth Council has been a concrete foundation to my growth as a leader and catalyst for change.

Applications are now open for the National Youth Council. GGC is looking for YOUR ideas, voice and perspectives. Deadline: Tuesday, June 19. 

Nayah is a member of the National Youth council from Victoria, BC. She has just graduated from St. Michael’s University School and looks forward to attending UBC’s Sauder School of business this fall. Outside of Guiding, Nayah enjoys hiking, travelling, playing soccer and trying new foods!