Sri Lanka Girl Guides’ Association celebrates 108 years



Sri Lanka Girl Guides Association (SLGGA) proudly marked its 108th anniversary, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to empowering young girls across the nation


Dr. Kushantha Herath, Chief Commissioner of the SLGGA

The Sri Lanka Girl Guides Association (SLGGA) proudly marked its 108th anniversary, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to empowering young girls across the nation. Since its establishment in 1917, SLGGA has been a vital force in shaping the lives of young women, fostering leadership, self-discipline, social responsibility, and essential life skills. 

For over a century, the association has equipped girls with essential life skills, fostering confidence and leadership. With a membership of approximately 60,000 girls and young women nationwide, SLGGA’s diverse programs, including leadership training, problem-solving, community service, environmental stewardship, and self-development, prepare members to become active citizens and future leaders.
To commemorate this significant milestone, SLGGA launched a nationwide tree-planting campaign, aiming to plant 10,000 trees across Sri Lanka. This initiative underscores the association’s deep commitment to environmental conservation, enabling young Guides to actively contribute to their communities and the planet.

 

A legacy of leadership

“For 108 years, the Sri Lanka Girl Guides Association has been a beacon of empowerment for young women,” stated Dr. Kushantha Herath, Chief Commissioner of the SLGGA. “Our programs are designed to instill confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of community, preparing our Guides to become leaders in all aspects of their lives,” said Herath. 
Since its inception, SLGGA has empowered girls through programmes focusing on essential life skills. Leadership training builds confidence and resilience, while participation fosters values like teamwork, respect, and honesty.
As a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), uniting 153 countries, SLGGA connects Sri Lankan girls to a global movement. This affiliation enables collaboration, idea exchange, and participation in initiatives addressing gender equality, climate change, and human rights.
SLGGA’s Guides benefit from international opportunities, engaging in events organized by member countries, expanding their worldview and skills. The association also operates Community Guiding and Guiding for Girls with Disabilities branches, ensuring inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for all girls.

 

Planting 10,000 trees 

SLGGA’s 10,000-tree reforestation initiative, launched as part of the anniversary celebrations, reflects its environmental commitment. Spanning schools, public spaces, and community centers, this collaborative effort involves Guides, volunteers, and local environmental organizations.
The campaign combats deforestation and climate change, educates Guides on biodiversity and sustainability, and inspires environmental stewardship. Guides learn about deforestation’s impact on global warming and sustainable practices.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Growth*
SLGGA is committed to adapting its programmes to meet the evolving needs of young women, focusing on:
  • Digital literacy and STEM education.
  • Mental health awareness, with initiatives like peer support programs and mindfulness workshops.
  • Strengthening guiding programs, focusing on leadership, empowerment, and social responsibility.
  • Promoting Girl-Led Action on Climate Change (GLACC), a WAGGGS-supported initiative, encouraging eco-friendly projects and advocacy.
“As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our mission to empower girls to become leaders who will drive positive change,” added Dr. Kushantha Herath. “We will continue to adapt to the ever-changing world, and to empower the next generation of female leaders.”
With 108 years of service, SLGGA remains a powerful force in empowering young women.

(The Sri Lanka Girl Guides Association is a leading organization dedicated to empowering girls and young women through diverse programs that foster leadership, self-discipline, and social responsibility)

 


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