Youth Network, one year in!
17th July 2024
Over the past year, we have been fortunate to participate in the NEE Youth Network. The Network helps to inspire and engage with the youth voice in the Region. We encourage and advocate for a connection between the youth voice and the older members of Girlguiding as we believe this is a mutually beneficial relationship. The Network currently consists of 8 members who meet half-termly to share new ideas and to plan events to advocate for youth involvement. We are all volunteers who are passionate about supporting youth voice and incorporating it into the wider Girlguiding structure.
The network’s biggest success to date was hosting the Welcome to Bridge event in March 2024. This event was the first major project developed by the Youth Network and aimed to encourage young members of Girlguiding (aged 14-30) to access different opportunities and utilise their voices. While a great opportunity to bring young adults together, the event also helped participants develop skills including using social media, developing mental resilience, and utilising youth voice. Most of the sessions were facilitated by the youth network team with support from one of the Region’s Sports Coordinators Gabby Calvert. The event was also supported by a local leader Katherine who shared her expertise in involving women in STEM. The sessions were all well-received by participants and provided great feedback which the Network will use to inform future similar events – so make sure to keep an eye out on our events page!
The Welcome to Bridge event also featured an Opportunities Roadshow which introduced participants to the variety of ways young adults can get involved in Girlguiding. From the Queens Guide Award to Peer Education to International opportunities and more, there was something for everyone. The event was a great success and encouraged many young members to consider different ways they could use their voice both within Girlguiding and outside.
Following on from the success of the event, the Youth Network has begun to consider its future. We are currently aiming to create toolkits and resources to inspire youth voice in Girlguiding at County levels and below. We hope these toolkits will be useful in advising on the most effective methods to include youth voice in decision-making and leadership at all levels within Girlguiding.
We are also hopeful to expand the current team so there are currently vacancies to apply for the NEE Youth Network. If youth voice and involvement is something you are passionate about, we would love to hear from you. The Youth Network is a great way to meet new people, develop valuable skills, and promote youth voice throughout the Region. There is also the opportunity to use some elements towards your Queen’s Guide Award.
Here’s what Isabel has to say about being part of the Youth Network:
“I really enjoy being part of something greater in Girlguiding while working with some lovely people and helping inspire the youth voice in our region. The event that we put on was perfect to learn new things and connect with others within the region; it had a wonderful sense of community.”
If you would like to apply to join the Youth Network, check the NEE region vacancies on the website where you will find more information and the application pack.
Emma Harrison & Isabel Pritchard