The Girls’ Brigade Ireland officially launched our 2020-2021 session at our Online AGM on Friday October 2nd. As well as a re-vamped programme suitable for running outdoors or online, we welcomed a new National President and Vice-President and three new National Board members.
When we said goodbye at the end of our 2019 AGM last September we could not have imagined the year that would be ahead, or that we would next be meeting virtually! Over 70 volunteers from all around Ireland joined the AGM online. We would have loved to have all been in the same room, but it was wonderful to see so many smiling faces on our computer screens, proudly wearing GB uniform and preparing for the session ahead.
We were sad to say goodbye to Margery McElhinney who is retiring after 10 years as our National President. Even with level 3 restrictions in Co. Dublin, we managed to arrange for a family member to surprise her with flowers live on camera! We look forward to a proper celebration when it is safe to meet again!
Taking up the reins is our new National President Hazel Ensor, as well as our new National Vice-President Emily Borland. Together with existing National Vice-President Isobel Henderson these three ladies will make an amazing team to represent and support GB!
We also have three new members joining the National Board. A constitutional change last year allowed us to widen the membership of our National Board and we are excited to see what ideas and energy these three young women will bring to the organisation.
Our Programme & Training Committee, Spirituality Committee, National Board and National Secretary have been working hard over the summer. Together they have come up with some fantastic resources to help our leaders adjust to leading the GB programme during this pandemic.
New packs advising how to run the GB programme outdoors or online were developed. A brand new Art Competition open to individual members of all ages was launched. Videos of dance and PE routines were recorded and shared.
This year our Scripture programme focuses on the theme of God Cares For Me, and includes activities to support girls to look after their mental health, and to practice mindfulness and gratitude.
It will be a very different year for our GB members but we are exciting to get started and to meet up with all our GB girls again after such a long break!
