West Auckland Girls’ Brigade is more than just an organisation; it’s a community. The national and international movement aims to enrich and empower women.
The organisation has around 50 members out West and four companies based at New Lynn, Massey, Te Atatū Peninsula and Blockhouse Bay.
Members meet weekly and participate in a rich programme of activities designed to help young women succeed in tomorrow’s world. Being a part of the Girls’ Brigade provides a platform for personal growth and development and fosters a sense of community and belonging.
According to Megan Connolly of the Brigade’s West Auckland region, outings, camps, adventure sports, and international events are not just about fun. They’re opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and deepening of faith – all while having a great time.
Megan says that a vital aspect of the Girls’ Brigade movement is developing tomorrow’s leaders. ‘Our companies are desperate for good leaders to support our weekly programmes,’ she reports and adds, ‘We always look to encourage and promote our own talented young women.’
Thanks to the funding of $869 from the 2023 Your West Support Fund, three locals participated in the nationwide Awesome Leadership programme. Young leaders aged 14-21 from around the country take part in this five-day course. ‘The Awesome Leadership initiative develops leadership skills, including communication, community service, teamwork and problem-solving,’ says Megan. Young leaders attend the course for three years and build on their knowledge and skills each time.
‘It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with other young women from across the country, gain fresh perspectives, make new friends and inspire each other,’ declares Megan.
She advises that two local women have successfully completed the programme, and one has finished her first year. All of them have taken on leadership roles in the New Lynn company.
Even better, one of the young leaders was also awarded the Queen’s Award, the ultimate service award available to young women in New Zealand. Another has just completed the two-year Queen’s Award programme and looks forward to receiving her prize soon.
West Auckland Girls Brigade is always open and welcoming and is keen to hear from new potential members. If you’d like to get involved in this rewarding movement, check out the website
or Facebook page.
