The Bharat Scouts and Guides of India
Sharmin attended Getting Ready for World Conference ahead of the WAGGGS World Conference in Cyprus 2023.
“WAGGGS events initiate and accelerate a global perspective on working towards Sustainable Development Goals. As a Girl Guide, WAGGGS put me on the frontline, making my voice heard on the UN stage and empowering me to inspire other girls and young women worldwide through Girl Guiding.
"The event enabled me to effectively influence and collaborate with fellow activists, fostering cooperation within the WAGGGS community. I gained valuable insights and opportunities, enhancing my ability to work with others. This platform allowed me to refine my leadership skills and build meaningful relationships. Ultimately, it empowered me to drive positive change and promote girl empowerment globally.
"The event was a profoundly meaningful experience for me, personally. Not only was it my first time flying, but it also marked a long-lasting moment of self-sufficiency and resilience for me as a Girl Guide making a difference in my community, now stepping onto the global stage.
"The conference experience, coupled with the motivation from receiving the WAGGGS Olave Award for my community work, has consistently inspired me to strive for excellence. The networking sessions I attended, including the Plastic Tide Turners Advocacy Champion, were instrumental in enhancing my skills and empowering me to drive more impactful environmental activism in my community. A year later, I was honoured to represent WAGGGS at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP29 in Azerbaijan, an experience that proved to be a turning point in my life. I also received opportunities from The Bharat Scouts & Guides to facilitate Jamborees and workshops.
"For those attending for the first time, don't just view it as an event – it's a pivotal moment in your Girl Guide journey, sparking a lifelong passion and commitment to Guiding. This experience will elevate your community engagement to new heights and serve as a valuable guide for future initiatives, opening doors to limitless opportunities. Never stop learning from WAGGGS!
"I'm profoundly thankful to the OB-PS donors and supporters of WAGGGS, whose generosity has enabled Girl Guides like me to transcend local boundaries and become global change-makers. Your contributions have amplified our voices, allowing us to contribute to a more just and equitable world. Thank you for your trust and investment in our potential.”
Sharmin took part in Getting Ready for World Conference, the programme at the heart of our Light the Future campaign. Her story is one of many — and with your support, we can ensure more young women like Sharmin are ready to lead at the 2026 World Conference and beyond.