The Hong Kong Girl Guides Association is a non-profit organization that aims to promote the development of girls and young women in Hong Kong through a program of self-development and community service. As one of the oldest youth organizations in Hong Kong, it has a rich history spanning over a century.
The founding of the Girl Guides movement
The Girl Guides movement was founded in England in 1909 by Robert Baden-Powell, a military officer who had served in the British Army. He was inspired by the success of his book "Scouting for Boys" and wanted to create a similar organization for girls. The first Girl Guides company was formed in 1910 and the movement quickly spread around the world.
Early history of Girl Guides in Hong Kong
The first Girl Guide company in Hong Kong was formed in 1916 by Mrs. E.M. Buxton, the wife of the then Governor of Hong Kong. The company was initially made up of the daughters of expatriate families, but it soon expanded to include local Chinese girls. In 1920, the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association was formally established with the aim of promoting the physical, mental, and spiritual development of girls and young women in Hong Kong.
The arrival of the Girl Scout movement
In the 1930s, the Girl Scout movement was introduced to Hong Kong by American expatriates. The Girl Scouts became popular among American and European girls, while the Girl Guides remained popular among local Chinese girls. Despite some differences, both organizations were committed to promoting the same values and principles.
The merger of the Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in Hong Kong
In 1974, the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association and the Hong Kong Girl Scouts Association merged to form the Hong Kong Girl Guides and Girl Scouts Association. The merger was seen as a way to unite the two organizations and strengthen the Girl Guiding movement in Hong Kong.
Establishment of the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association
In 1996, the Hong Kong Girl Guides and Girl Scouts Association was renamed as the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association. The association was officially registered as a society under the Societies Ordinance in Hong Kong in 1997.
Recognition by the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts
The Hong Kong Girl Guides Association was recognized as a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in 1961. This recognition was a significant achievement for the association and helped to raise its profile both locally and internationally.
The growth of the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association
Over the years, the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association has grown to become one of the largest youth organizations in Hong Kong. It has over 50,000 members and continues to expand its programs and activities to meet the changing needs of young people in Hong Kong.
Key figures in the association’s history
There have been many key figures in the history of the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association, including Lady Mary Grayburn, who served as the association’s first president, and Mrs. Mary Wang, who played a key role in the merger of the Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in Hong Kong.
Celebrating the association’s milestones
The Hong Kong Girl Guides Association has celebrated many milestones over the years, including its 100th anniversary in 2016. The association marked the occasion with a series of events and activities, including a large-scale camp and a commemorative book.
The association today
Today, the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association continues to play an important role in the development of young people in Hong Kong. Its programs and activities focus on leadership, community service, and personal development, and are designed to help young people build confidence, resilience, and a sense of social responsibility.
Conclusion
The Hong Kong Girl Guides Association has a proud history spanning over a century. Its mission to promote the development of girls and young women in Hong Kong remains as relevant today as it was when the association was first established. As the association continues to grow and evolve, it will undoubtedly play an important role in shaping the future of young people in Hong Kong.
