(Submitted photo/Cynthia Mamer)

By Nigel Maxwell

Youth leaders

Girl Guides shaping lives in Prince Albert for 100 years

Apr 14, 2025 | 5:26 PM

Girl Guides of Canada is celebrating 100 years of guiding in Prince Albert.

A special event was held on Saturday at the Wildlife Federation Banquet and Events Centre and included the awarding of a King Charles III medal to local unit guider Allison Gillespie, who has been an adult member for the past 18 years. She told paNOW she was feeling honoured and noted Girl Guiding is a group investment.

“It’s so surprising because there are so many wonderful people involved and to have those same people hold you in some position of respect or acknowledgment above all the amazing things that they themselves are doing.”

Gillespie first joined the Girl Guides when she was a youth and commented about how it offers a place to feel included, and does not discriminate interests or background.

“It’s just a safe and supportive space which is something everybody needs in their youth and teen years”

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Allison Gillespie (left) with Deputy Provincial Commissioner, Sierra Unick. (Submitted/Cynthia Mamer)

When asked what brought her back as an adult, Gillespie said many of the outdoor activities she loved doing as a girl, such as camping and exploring, have stayed with her and it just seemed like a natural fit to now help other youth experience those things as well.

Reflecting on the organization’s 100 year anniversary in Prince Albert, Gillespie said the organization has evolved over time, and many of the programs today don’t look the same as they did when she started, such as collecting badges or ticking boxes.

“But it remains relevant and it remains centered on what the youth are interested in and wanting to experience,” she said.

Over 100 people attended last Saturday’s celebration and included members with less than five years experience, and also one lady who has been a member for 83 years.

Eveline Lundgren was a young girl when she joined Girl Guides in England during the Second World War. There is no special pin or badge for someone with so much experience, but there was a special gift and presentation.

“It was a real celebration and a real wonderful kind of bonding experience of the longevity of Girl Guides and what it still has to offer,” Gillespie said. “Lots of memories and lots of friendships were re-ignited.”

Eveline receives a special gift. (Submitted photo/Cynthia Mamer)

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Blue Sky: @nigelmaxwell.bsky.social