The Tribune

The Exuma District of the Bahamas Girl Guide Association recently celebrated Guide Week at the Palestine Union Baptist Church on the island. 

The girls came together for a time of worship under the leadership of Rev Lynden Clarke. Guide Week was held under the theme “Grow”.

The district has been in existence for 11 years and focuses on guiding young girls in achieving a love for country and citizenship, exhibiting positive attitude and mannerisms and learning life-long skills.  

Some of the main areas of discipline include developing the mind, an enjoyment of the outdoors, home craft skills, service to others, relationships with people, creative ability, character and fitness.

The organisation also encourages international goodwill and understanding by establishing cordial relations with Girl Guides of other nations.

District Commissioner Millicent Collie along with Acting Commissioner Shequita Clarke currently hosted meetings at the George Town Primary School, Rolleville Primary School, Stuart Manor Primary School, LN Coakley High School and St Andrew’s School.  

The units include Sunflowers, Brownies, Guides and Rangers.  

Guiding was started in England by Robert Baden Powell in 1910 and it quickly took root in all parts of the world. Five years later it was introduced to the Bahamas by

Miss Lobb, the daughter of an English light-house keeper who came to the Bahamas.

Following a meeting with Lady Allardyce, wife of Lieutenant Governor, Sir William Allardyce, on October 23, 1915, the decision was made to establish three companies with the help of the two Allardyce daughters. 

From its inception, Guiding assisted with character training, development of intellectual, physical, social and moral aspect of the lives of girls and young women.