Over 160 members of the Irish Girl Guides (IGG) gathered at University College Dublin last Saturday 11 October 2025 to celebrate one of the most prestigious milestones in Guiding: the National Guide Award.
This marks a 20% increase on last year’s figure, with Guides from all seven IGG Regions in attendance. The event brought together more than 540 people, including Guides, Senior Branch members, their families, Leaders, and invited guests from across the Irish Girl Guides and the wider youth work community.
The ceremony recognised Guides aged 14–15 from across Ireland who successfully completed the four-year Journey Programme and were presented with the Trail Blazer Award. Each recipient received a distinctive gold pin from IGG President Deirdre Henley and a National Guide Award certificate from Amanda O’Sullivan, IGG’s Chief Commissioner.
The National Guide Award acknowledges the resilience, creativity, and leadership skills developed through Guiding. Over the past four years, these young people have taken part in outdoor expeditions, leadership challenges, and community-focused projects, all of which prepared them to become confident and empowered young women.
Words from one of our award-winning Guides: “Receiving this award has been a highlight of my Guiding journey.
“It has given me the courage to step out of my comfort zone, take on new challenges, and discover strengths I didn’t know I had. I will carry these lessons with me for life.
“I look forward to starting my journey as a Senior Branch now!” Guides form the third branch of the Irish Girl Guides, catering for girls aged 10–14.
Their Journey Programme challenges them to grow in independence and teamwork while exploring the outdoors, building life skills, and developing a spirit of adventure. Paula McQuillan, Chair of the Guide Branch: “Completing the National Guide Award is an extraordinary achievement.
“It reflects years of dedication, curiosity, and teamwork. These Trail blazers have shown that when girls are supported to challenge themselves, they flourish, not only within Guiding but also in their schools, families, and communities.
“I’m incredibly proud of each one of them.” Amanda O’Sullivan, Chief Commissioner of IGG: “This award ceremony is a powerful reminder of how Guiding shapes futures.
“These young women have proven their ability to lead, to work together, and to embrace challenges with positivity. Their achievements give us all reason to be proud.”
Deirdre Henley, President of Irish Girl Guides: “Each National Guide Award represents more than a certificate, it is a story of perseverance, adventure, and leadership.
“These Guides have shown what can be achieved when young women are encouraged to dream big and support each other along the way.” Irish Girl Guides welcomes members from age 5+ and volunteer Leaders from age 18+.
