Council Vice Chair hosts reception to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Girl Guiding Fermanagh.

Speaking at the event, Vice Chair of the Council, Councillor Shirley Hawkes, said:

“As Vice-Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I am delighted to welcome you all here to the Townhall, Enniskillen for this reception to mark the 100th anniversary of Girl Guiding Fermanagh.

Girl Guiding has a rich and significant history, dating back to 1910 when Robert Baden-Powell and his sister Agnes Baden-Powell founded the Girl Guide Association. Over the past century, it has grown into a global movement.

Locally, Girlguiding in Fermanagh began in 1925 with the 1st Enniskillen Company, led by Vera Jenkins and Nellie Inglis, trained by Australian-born Lilian Irwin. A Brownie Pack soon followed under the leadership of Flora MacManaway and Catherine Trail. Camps and full guide programmes flourished and units quickly spread across the county, making Girl Guiding accessible to girls in towns and villages alike.

Girl Guiding consists of a variety of groups designed to support girls at every stage of their development, including Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, and Rangers. Each group is designed to meet the interests of girls in different age groups.

At the heart of Girl Guiding is a strong belief in the transformative power of learning. The organisation is dedicated to empowering girls and young women to work as a team, grow in confidence, and become leaders. Members have the opportunity to gain practical skills such as first aid, outdoor survival, and effective communication. They are also encouraged to pursue their passions and develop a strong sense of identity and purpose in a fun and supportive environment.

I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere gratitude to every leader and volunteer whose dedication and passion have helped shape Girl Guiding Fermanagh into the successful and welcoming organisation it is today. Your commitment has not only sustained the organisation but you have undoubtedly inspired and positively impacted the lives of the young people you guide.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to ensuring that our young people have the best start in life and lifelong opportunities to fulfil their potential. Girl

Guiding exemplifies this commitment wonderfully. Through its initiatives Girl Guiding inspires girls and young women to challenge themselves, achieve more, and grow into confident, capable and compassionate individuals.

On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and on my own behalf, I want to extend a heartfelt commendation to everyone who has been part of Girl Guiding Fermanagh, past and present. Here’s to 100 years of Girl Guiding Fermanagh and wishing you continued success in the future.”