I am Ness, aged 30, and have been in Girlguiding since I was a Rainbow and have never left the movement. Currently, I co-run a Guide unit in Tooting, London and I work in the VFX (visual effects) industry.
How did you get involved as a volunteer with Girlguiding?
It was a natural progression for me as I was a young leader whilst I was a Ranger. I always knew that I wanted to be a unit leader and achieving my leadership qualification in the unit that I essentially grew up in was very special.
What has been a highlight from your time as a volunteer?
I have had the opportunity to travel across the world as an adult volunteer. Most recently, I gained some friends for life at the 25th World Scout Jamboree in Korea. My first international experience with guiding was when I was 18 at an international camp in Denmark and 12 years later I am still able to travel to places with wonderful people that I would have never met without guiding.
Have you learnt anything new about yourself since you started volunteering?
I am far more resilient than I ever thought I was. Working a full time job with other life commitments can be challenging to balance, but providing a safe space for women to be themselves makes everything worth it.
What skills are needed in your volunteering role?
Enthusiasm, diligence and commitment so that the young people can get as much out of guiding as possible. This can include delivering a varied weekly programme and getting involved as a unit with trips and activities that the region offers.
What would you say to someone who's interested in volunteering with Girlguiding?
I am of course biased in that I could not be person I am today with guiding and the opportunities it has given me, alongside the many wonderful people I have met. But if you are looking for something different, have some time to give and would like the opportunity to travel, Girlguiding is for you!