We are GIRLGUIDING say Girl Guides UK by Benson Agoha

They were seated under a Canopy, at the recent Asial Festival on Sunday, the 11th of August - two middle aged women, peering through thier sunshade eye-glasses, looking cool.

As I approached them, they crack into a broad smile. I reciprocated.

`Hello there, how can we help?', one asked.

I introduced myself and asked if they could tell me a bit more about the `GirlGuides'. Is it just another self-centered group, aimed at championing the interests of women?.

`No' She said, `of-course not. It's just that there are things that only we girls should make out time by ourselves to talk about'. As I noded in agreement, she went on.

`The GirlGuides UK are the leading charity for girls and young women in the UK. We are part of a global body called World Association of GirlGuides and Girl Scouts `WAGGGS'. Our primary goal is to look after the interest of girls from age 5 to 105, and children.'

* GirlGuides are happy girls.

We help girls discover who they are and help them overcome their inhibitions by teaching them how to cope with turbulent times. We help build girl's confidence and raise their aspirations as well as give them the chance to discover their full potential. We also give them a space to have fun.

The GirlGuides holds annual conference for girls and young women which involves them making decisions at all levels. They are also tought how to deal with peer pressure, how to be part of a worldwide community of girls who learn together.

Like every charity, the Girl Guides can use every help they can get, from volunteers to supporters who make donations in support of their many good causes.

I asked if they have a local office and she said `yes'. The local GirlGuides, their office is at 4th Plumstead Common, St. James Church, Burrage Road, Plumstead SE18.

GirlGuides say `..we make things happen!'

To find out more about your chances, volunteer or egister your interest, please go to www.girlguiding.org.uk.

Report by Benson Agoha.

Twitter: @bensonagoha.

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For Woolwich Arsenal Online.

Twitter: @woolwichonline.