Welcome

Welcome

This framework exists as a result of youth-led research by the Young Women in Governance research team (2019) which recommended that WAGGGS and its Member Organisations (MOs) mainstreamed Meaningful Youth Participation in all areas of their work. It has been informed by intergenerational perspectives of MO and WAGGGS Global Team representatives on the current stage of youth participation across the Movement. This is the foundation from which our work will continue towards the Movement’s commitment to be girls and young women-led.

Dear Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting friends,  

It’s a pleasure to welcome you to our new Meaningful Youth Participation (MYP) Framework! This document brings to life a core value of our Movement—ensuring that young people are truly empowered to shape the present and future of our global Movement. In alignment with Compass 2032, this Framework provides a roadmap for creating the inclusive, dynamic culture we envision. It’s not just about having youth at the table, but about building spaces where their voices drive action and inspire lasting change across WAGGGS.

The trefoil model included in this Framework is particularly powerful. It reflects the culture, opportunities, and principles that are fundamental to making youth participation meaningful at every level. Through this model, we are showing our Member Organisations and Global Team that true youth empowerment is both possible and essential.

Personally, I am inspired by the vision of this Framework because it reinforces a belief I hold dearly: that our Movement is at its best when young people are engaged as leaders, decision-makers, and advocates. Together we are building a Movement where every young member has the opportunity to contribute their ideas, lead with purpose, and make their mark on our shared mission.

I look forward to seeing how each of you brings this vision to life within your own teams and communities!

With excitement and solidarity,  

Candela González

Chair of the World Board 

Dear Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting friends,  

It is so exciting to be sharing this Framework with the Movement – a practical tool for us to use to work towards our shared Compass 2032 vision for an equal world where all girls can thrive, and to be a Movement led by girls and young women.  

However, what is more exciting is what happens next… Seeing how the Framework is used and adapted across the many different contexts that exist in Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting! From local groups to national level, to global programmes and governance structures. Already there is so much youth participation happening in our Movement, it is built into our DNA. An essential part of implementing the ideas in this Framework will come from the sharing of best practice amongst us, to support each other to grow and learn from our experiences.  

The power of Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting is in our ripple effect of impact. An experience of meaningful participation for a young person can support them to realise their potential and empower them to go on and make the change they want to see in the world.  

The magic of Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting is in how we share leadership and celebrate everyone for what she brings. Despite having different contexts we work in, different ways of doing things, different challenges to overcome, we are united by our hope to empower any and every girl.  

Here’s to a Movement led by girls and young women,  

Anna Bambrick  

Youth Leadership and Participation Lead