Maximising International Experiences
"Not only is a GOLD project an opportunity to experience and promote Guiding in another country but it is also an opportunity to experience a different culture and lifestyle. However prepared you think you are, you are never prepared for a GOLD trip. It is a roller coaster of new experiences, emotions, opportunities, tears and laughter crammed into the most hectic and tiring two weeks of your life. But it will also be reflected upon as the most memorable. An unforgettable experience." Kerry Gallagher
"I love being able to go anywhere in the world and find a friend." Guider
"The feeling of belonging is the best thing about Guiding. A feeling that you know other Guiders even if you have never met them - a common interest with women all over the world." Guider
"I thought you might like to know how my trip to Australia was. I had an absolutely brilliant time and managed to do so many things I have never done before and wouldn't have dreamt of doing before this..... I have made what I am sure will be many friends for life thanks to the opportunity I was given by being selected to go on this trip of a lifetime." Helen Kimber
GOLD (Guiding Overseas Linked to Development) is a national scheme run by the Guide Association for members aged between 16 and 30. It links teams of young people with practical projects in partnership with Associations in other countries. Examples of projects include teaching English, Guiding training projects, primary healthcare projects and education work.
What better way to learn about other countries than for the girls to take part in an international experience? As we are part of a world-wide network reaching into 140 countries, the opportunities we offer to our members in Bedfordshire are unique compared to other organisations.
There are two main ways (in addition to organising a trip for themselves) in which our members can visit overseas - by being chosen to go on:
- An international camp - a working holiday with girls from other countries
- SA GOLD project
Either way, the girls an young women have to go through a selection process, sometimes on a national basis. They may also have to undergo some training to enable them to carry out the work they will be expected to do. As part of this, they are expected to raise the money themselves for their visit overseas.
This year, four young women were chosen to represent Bedfordshire overseas:
- Kerry Gallagher from Flitwick went to the Ukraine in the summer to teach English and guiding skills at a camp in Cherniv
- Rachel Dawson-Addison from Sandy was chosen to go to Russia
- Elizabeth Hayden, a Young Leader from Dunstable, went to Sweden
- Helen Kimber, a Biggleswade Ranger, was chosen to go to a camp in Australia
In addition, various units and individuals took up their own opportunities to visit other countries, including Canada and the United States, Italy, France, Switzerland, Disneyland, Tasmania, Camp America.
Going overseas with Guiding really is a life-changing experience. Imagine living for three weeks with other girls from cultures across the globe, working on a primary health care project or helping to contribute to the local economy. The Guide Association in Bedfordshire recognises the value of its work in this area and we actively encourage our members to become involved in international work.
Home Page : County News : Guide Centres : Division News : Links : Section Info :