Local girls receive top GB honours

Among the 59 girls, this year receiving the award, were Lynsey Gregg, and Rachael Hayes, from First Clough Presbyterian, and Jill Hamilton, Kathryn Hamilton, Rachel Mairs, and Alex Wilson from First Broughshane Presbyterian.

Over a period of 2 years, the girls completed a period of voluntary work, a written project or piece of creative work, helped out in their local GB company, organised a local fundraising event for a charity of their choice, and attended an interview with GBNI officials.

The Queen’s award is the highest award attainable in Girls’ Brigade, run to agreed international standards in GB companies all over the world. 59 girls this year received the award and collectively raised over £11,000 for 30 different charities.

Nursing homes, charity shops, home and overseas mission teams and youth organisations in NI all benefitted from the voluntary work undertaken by the girls. Music, religion, politics, size zero, eating disorders and media influences were some of the topics researched for the project work. Alex Wilson (pictured back row 1st left,) from First Broughshane was one of 10 girls selected to represent GBNI at the recent Royal Wedding, due to her performance in the Queen’s Award.

Patron of Girls’ Brigade Lynda Bryans commended the girls’ efforts and dedication, she said: “The Queen’s Award says that the recipient has dedication, motivation, commitment and leadership skills, and sets them apart as special. It’s a tribute to the hundreds of leaders in GB in Northern Ireland, that so many young women seek to complete their Queen’s Award year after year. I’m proud to be a part of this great organisation and I congratulate this year’s recipients.”

GB offers a balanced programme for girls aged 3 - 18 of Bible teaching, physical activity, community and church service, along with many opportunities to learn new skills and take on new challenges. GB is a valued place where girls can be girls, make lifelong friends, find positive female role models, learn relevant Christian application in life, and escape the pressures of self - image, fashion, exams, relationships and other issues facing 21st Century youth.

GBNI are happy to assist any churches, who do not currently have GB, to start up a Company. Churches should contact GBHQ for more information on this. There are almost 300 GB Companies in Northern Ireland parents should look up the GB website at www.gbni.co.uk to find a company in their area or contact GBHQ on [email protected] or T: 028 94548054 for more information.