The Lowdown - Our final Training session at Ford School, Nungua 4th October

It's our last full day of Project, which means this is our last blog post about Training. We had our last Training yesterday and it certainly was one of the best! Read below for more details!

The High's

• When we arrived at Nungua School, we were ushered onto a bus full of Rangers! We promptly led a massive and very loud version of "Everywhere we go" which went down a storm. Even the boys wanted to be Girl Guides (what's new??)
• After our song teaching, we were taught some amazing songs including a song about Free Being Me which Mhairi loved! 
• Once again the sun was shining for GOLD Ghana 2016 so we took some of our Training outside. Suntan and training at the same time? WIN!
• We met our first lot of Rangers - and they did not disappoint! Once again, we had a great PR radio chat show complete with the most Scottish radio presenter....
• Fake magnums coupled with competent TroTro navigation. We even had to change TroTro. We. Nailed. It. Can we get our TroTro badge and Ghana Citizenship yet?

The Low's

• We might have forgotten Henry at our Training! (Or he might have been kidnapped like Paul the penguin!) We are very sad GOLDies; losing your mascot is never fun. 
• Yesterday's TroTro was very low on our TroTro rating list. It had a rusty floor we could see through, no space for tall people like Terri, the doors did not close, and we were stuck in traffic. A weak 1/10.

The Funny's

• After we trained, we decided we needed to treat ourselves (obvs). We proceeded to have Rolo ice cream with 100s&1000s. Adulting is only a daytime thing....
• On the subject of food, we had a makeshift sandwich making sweat shop, where we sat in a circle, made a mess of crumbs on the floor, and made the weirdest and most basic sandwiches ever while everyone watched. We then had Kenke (similar to both Banku and Fufu) where Alice ate a full handful of chilli. We laughed. A lot.
• Mhairi has mastered the "Tsss" of attracting attention of TroTro vendors. She proceeded to buy two bags of plantain chips. 

GOLD Ghana 2016's Guide to the "Tss"

The "Tss" is something we have became experts in (Much like TroTro's and Jollof rice). The "Tss" is for attracting attention and can mean various things including:

1. "Tss" = "Hello, I wish to purchase something from you please Sir/Madam"
2. "Tss" = "Hello Sir/Madam, would you per chance like to purchase something from my head or market stall?"
3. "Tss" = "Will you do me the honour of marrying me you beautiful lady?"
4. "Tss" = "I wish for you to come closer (Cat)"
5. "Tss" = "Excuse me, you seem to be lost. Would you like to come in my taxi or TroTro?"
6. "Tss" = "Please move out of the way, I am carrying a large piece of Latex Foam on my head and I may injure you."
7. "Tss" = "Can I have your attention? Not for anything in particular, however I would like it just for two seconds. Thank you."

GOLD Love

XOXO

The Lowdown - Training for Accra Leaders at the Training Centre, Achimota 3rd October 2016

As it is our last full day on Project, we have a lot of stuff to share with you! Read below to find out about our Training on Monday, and keep on checking back today for another blog post about yesterday's Training!

The High's

• We had the largest turnout for the Training Centre, and the largest amount of Leaders in this training! Thank you to everyone who attended and for being the loudest group!
• The sun was shining again, which meant spirits were high and we could hold some of the session outside! Yay!
• We finally managed to do "Make New Friends" successfully with the arms. Its harder than it looks ok......
• As part of our PR session, we include a radio chat show to practice shouting about our key Guiding messages. On Monday, we had lots of volunteers to be interviewed and lots of laughs at Mhairi's ridiculous Scottish accent! 

The Low's

• We went to our favourite place for dinner, and our best friend and waitress was nowhere to be seen. GOLD Ghana were very sad to not see her before we depart. (If you are reading this, you are fabulous!)

The Funny's

• Jennifer. Just Jennifer. If you are in Ghana and meet Jennifer from Accra, you will know what we mean.
• Alice, Laura and Terri bought a cake and may have set the world record for cake eating. One second it was there, the next it was gone! Gluttony is a deadly sin girls!

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook to find out about our travels home and our last full day on Project!

Twitter - @GOLDGhana2016

Facebook - www.facebook.com/GOLDGhana2016

GOLD Love

XOXO

The Lowdown - Ashanti Region Training 1st October

On Friday we left a sunny Achimota for a rather rainy Kumasi. We really enjoyed travelling to another Region within Ghana and can't wait to share what went down in Kumasi (apart from rain)

The High's

• During our five hour bus ride to Kumasi, we were treated to an air conditioned bus! What a great change from the TroTro breeze! - For more info on TroTro's see our previous blog http://goldghana2016.blogspot.co.uk/2016/10/a-gold-ghana-guide-to-riding-trotro.html
• Believe it or not, we had the best Chinese we've had in a while in Kumasi. Paired with Alvaro (Mhairi's new favourite drink) it was easily one of the best meals we've had!
• Terri is now standing!! Well done Terri for getting back on your feet - no pun intended - so quickly!
• We got the chance to visit Kumasi Palace! It was really interesting 
• All of the team are getting more confident in training, and it shows! Well done GOLD Ghana for being confident trainers!
• While on our bus, we were treated to a movie. Most of these movies were not very good, however, Carpenter Love was different. Laura and Mhairi were engrossed for the entire journey and all of the team were excited that a film was finally in English!
  

The Low's

• Despite Carpenter Love, all of the other movies were rubbish. They also prevented us from getting our beauty sleep (which on our final week of Project, we probably could use!)
• We discovered that some of GOLD Ghana are still kids at heart, when we heard thunder and lightening. But with 3 in a bed, snuggles were easy to get to cheer scared GOLDies up!

The Funny's

• We had lots of "Ghana Moments" during our trip to Kumasi. From standing brushing our teeth on the balcony while watching the thunder and lightening, to going to a restaurant to find the chef has disappeared and then having to compliment the waiter on his paintings for fifteen minutes. Definite GOLD moments!
• We attacked Alice and Mhairi and drew faces on their knees. Apparently this is becoming a trend in our Team!
• GOLD Ghana were cold. Yes, you heard that correctly, cold. Are we acclimatising???

We're now doing back to back trainings until we leave, so from a tired but excitable team,

GOLD Love

XOXO

A GOLD Ghana Guide to riding a TroTro

While being on Project in Ghana, we have experienced a lot of Ghanian culture. From Banku to FuFu and everything in between, we have been thrown into Ghanian life - and as we have figured out, no experience in Ghana is complete without a TroTro!

So what IS a TroTro?

A TroTro is a way of getting around. Think of a van with around 16 seats inside (Some of which fold ooooh). Not every TroTro is the same, some being kitted out with the latest TV's and sound systems, and others being......let's say basic. TroTro's can go anywhere you desire, and have no timetable which can be shocking for the average Brit!

How do I go about riding a TroTro?

TroTro riding is a skilled process, so we have come up with a few easy steps so you can be experienced TroTro riders like GOLD Ghana 2016.

1. Figure out where to get your TroTro from - sometimes it can be complicated to find out where a TroTro stops. However, if there are enough of you at the side of the road, a TroTro will stop! 
2. Choose your TroTro- When you find a TroTro station or stop, chances are there will be 6/7 TroTro drivers trying to get you into their TroTro. Choose wisely, and set your price. Great for practicing your bargaining skills! 
3. Hop in! - After paying the Driver's Mate (A guy that half hangs out the window shouting the destination and who also collects the money) relax and enjoy your TroTro ride. During our Project, we've travelled all over Ghana, from Keta in the East, to Takoradi in the West, we've certainly travelled far and wide to train Leaders! TOP TIP: If there are four seats in a row, sit on all four seats. You don't choose your seats, you just fill up the TroTro. If someone needs to get off on your row, you all get off and pile back on again. That is the way of the TroTro.
4. Buy some TroTro treats - GOLD Ghana have sampled many of the delicious treats that you can buy via the TroTro window. Our favourites include plantain chips, toffee, toilet rolls and pillows - yes, actual pillows! However, any TroTro treats that you buy will have to sit on your knee amongst all of your other luggage. TroTro's are not made for bags.
5. Take a (sweaty) TroTro selfie or Trelfie - No TroTro ride is complete without a Trelfie to mark the occasion. We've taken a lot during our time here on Project, here's some of our favourites!

Our first TroTro

TroTros can cause tiredness

6. Try and get off at the correct stop - TroTros can change their route and it can be difficult to find the correct stop. But fear not, the Ghanians are super friendly and helpful and will help you to find where you need to go.

CONGRATULATIONS! You have now reached your destination and are now an expert in TroTro riding!

GOLD Love

XOXO

The Lowdown - Greater Accra Training 28th/29th September

Hey again!

We've had a busy couple of days doing trainings for the Greater Accra Region back to back - proving that GOLD is not a holiday!

So here's the lowdown on our two days of training here at the Guide Training Centre!

The High's

Terri's pose of the day!

• We've had some amazing responses from the Buzz Words and Key Messages activity! Check these out over on our Twitter @GOLDGhana2016 !!
• We ran crocodiles (the classic team building activity) for the first time! And it went down a storm! Well done Alice for fantastic team spirit and leading of the activity!
• Mhairi tasted the most delicious watermelon ever - 4 whole pieces were consumed. (There's also another half portion of watermelon for tomorrow's breakfast. YAY!)
• Sarah D and Laura made amazing fajitas last night. We love traditional Ghanaian food, but it does feel good to have some home comforts!
• Terri has progressed from bed-chair-walking! Well done Terri!!!
• We went to the Street Girls Aid and got measured for our dresses! Watch this space

The Low's

The kidnapping victim!

• Although we had a delicious dinner, we were extremely disappointed with the cake. It was so hard and tasteless. What a sad occasion for Team Ghana.
• Sarah H getting told she could get a dress and a skirt out of the same piece of material, only to be measured, and told she could not for her bum was too big! Beyonce aint got nothing on you Sarah!

The Funny's

• Yesterday evening, there was a bit of kidnapping going on in the Training Centre! Alice's penguin Paul, got kidnapped for a ransom! Fear not, he was safely returned!
• We discovered Alice couldn't care less about her stuffed toys or their whereabouts. THE SHAME!
• Terri broke another chair! Chairs broken by Team Ghana: 2!

GOLD Love

XOXO

The Lowdown - Alswell School, Winneba 26th September

We've moved! Hopefully now that we are in the Ghana Girl Guide Training Centre in Achimota, we'll have a more reliable source of Wifi and will post more regularly. We're having a bit of a chill day today before the madness of Training starts (and also to escape from the 35 degree heat outside!)

The High's

• The leaders were so...they were the most...they were really excited. (Alice's words. Top communicator of the group)
• Enthusiastic Leaders that wanted to learn as much about Guiding as possible, PLUS they wanted to open other units in the area - absolutely amazing!
• We had some ice cream as a starter, yum yum yum!
• Terri's foot is NOT BROKEN! Horrayyyy!
• Even though the unit at Alswell is practically a newborn, every girl had a Brownie/Guide Uniform and they knew some of our songs too! 
• A literal high: We walked 130 ft above the ground on Kakum's canopy walk! Alice was the most scared, and it was so wet Sarah H's contact lenses nearly were washed out her eyes!

The Low's

• In true GOLD style, we had to deliver our training in interesting circumstances. We had fifty children trying to peek through the windows at us, while builders were hammering upstairs. A training to remember!
• Halfway through our training, the 5:30am rise started to kick in, luckily, our hosts were at the ready with ice cold Coke.
• Apparently, trying to get something to eat on a Sunday night can prove difficult. We had to get a taxi to a service station to get something to feed our hungry bellies!
• Grace had some very disappointing Jolof rice, apparently not very spicy and from Nigera. We are grieving for you Grace.

The Funny's

Good Pose, Ter

• During our day at Kakum national park, we managed to find out the true meaning of RAINforest when we were soaked through the skin.
• On the way back from the national park, six people managed to squeeze into a taxi for four. Wet, cold, and smooshed, we certainly had a LOT of crazy conversations (not all of which I can remember)
• Mhairi has become the official group bargainer. She managed to buy Terri a pillow out of the TroTro window for £2, and got the taxi man down from 60 Cedi to 20. Go Mhairi!
• We had to eat our lunch outside of a petrol station. Ambience you say?
• During our TroTro ride home from Winneba, we were directed by Alice who said to the driver "Yes, turn here, I recognise that pile of rubble!"

GOLD Love

XOXO

The Lowdown - Ponty International School (Western Region) 23rd September

GOLDies at Ponty International School

Hi!

We have missed you! After five long days without a way to update the blog, we certainly have a LOT of stories to tell you! So we'll start at the very beginning with our first training in the Western Region. So grab a cuppa, and find out what we've been up to...

The High's

Six wet GOLDies :(

• What an amazing welcome we got from everyone in the Western Region! Not only were we welcomed by the Commissoners, but we received the warmest (and possibly the cutest?) welcomes from the kids at Ponty!
• We also visited Anksa National Park, which was absolutely beautiful! (However, see the Low's below to find out more about that trip!)
• Nom nom nom! We got fed traditional Banku and okra soup which was super yummy. Bonus points to the Western Region for feeding us! WIN WIN WIN
• Excitable Brownies and Guides are the absolute cutest! We trained over 60 Brownies and Guides at Ponty and their smiles were contagious.
• We ran a PR session that focused on key messages that we should shout about in Guiding. Responses included "Guiding impacts society in a unique way", "we bring transformation to young women" and "we help girls grow positively and confidently". AMAZING!

The Low's

Always a kid at heart!

• While we were trekking through the rainforest, Terri was busy falling. She now has a navy blue swollen foot, akin to the size of a large watermelon. However, after a fun x-ray, we have discovered it's just a sprain! So prepare to see lots of weird Terri poses on the floor.
• Alice, Sarah H and Laura were excited about the air con, only to discover it was broken! Sucks to be you girls.... (From an air con'd room)
• Breakfast: the most important meal of the day. Not to be ordered in a rush in Ghana, prepare to wait until dinnertime to receive said breakfast order. 

The Funny's

• ANGELINA'S!!! Big thanks for Auntie Regina, Cythina, Lydia and Alberta for such amazing gifts! We were lucky enough to be presented with colourful Ghana dresses called "Angelina's" and beautiful coloured neckers! Thank you!
• We found a PLAY PARK! We nearly broke the play park.....oops!
• Terri thought there were 24 letters in the alphabet. T,U,V not important 'Erri?



Aladdin or Angelina's?

• Laura took over the airwaves! She did an amazing job of representing us and sounded SUPER irish on the radio

Keep your eyes peeled for another blog all about our training in the Central Region, and our trip to Kakum National Park

GOLD Love

XOXO

The Lowdown - Training day at Aburi Girls Secondary School 21st September

We've had a busy day today training young women on Leadership, Team building, Empowerment and Personal Development. We were in our element today as we were working with girls - so we had a lot of games and songs thrown in for good measure. Before I spoil all the fun of today in the introduction, here's the lowdown on our training!

The High's

• The breeze on the hill
• Successful Tro-Troing
• Buckets of sandwiches (literally)
• Really positive training
• Great feedback from the girls
• Amazing responses from the girls on empowerment and the change they want to see in the world

The Not-So-High's

• Trying to get Wifi so I could write this blog
• Sarah D got a marriage proposal (We say that this was a high, she disagreed)
• Trying to get Wifi so I could tweet about the Highs of today
• Potholes and travel sickness on the Tro-Tro
• I couldn't get Wifi to upload our pictures on Facebook. Me? Annoyed? NO!

The Funny's

• Today we filmed a "Day in the life", so keep your eyes peeled for that amazing video!
• We managed to master the skill of buying items out the Tro-Tro window.
• Today it is Founder's Day! So we ate our dinner with party hats! Happy Founders Day everyone!
• We are currently having a pamper night and painting our toenails! YAY!

We are going away on a magical mystery tour through Ghana, so we might not have Wifi for a couple of days. However, we can assure you we are probably still alive and having the best time! 

Keep an eye out on our Facebook and Twitter for more updates!

www.twitter.com/GoldGhana2016

www.facebook.com/GoldGhana2016

GOLD Love
XOXO

The Lowdown - Volta Training 19th September

Hey everyone!

Hope you missed our blog! We've been a bit delayed in writing this due to the power cut that lasted several hours. While the power was down, we managed to do all of our shopping at the local market and have some ice cream. So we are very productive!

Beach time = Happy time

Without further ado, here's the lowdown on our training!

The High's

• We managed to train 60+ Leaders on Leadership, Communication, Team Building, Empowerment and PR.
• We got to visit the beach! We stayed at a fabulous hotel right on the beach which was a big change from the city!
• We had the best meal of our lives. Steak, fish and plantain - oh my!
• We found out that Keta was super friendly, and everyone loved waving at us on the Tro-Tro
• The food that you buy from Tro-Tro's is surprisingly tasty!
• We got great feedback from our training and hope all of the leaders continue to inspire the girls!

Our amazing participants!

The Not-so-high's

• Alice fell and broke a chair during training!
• We were super nervous before our training (we didn't need to be though!)
• Tro-Tro rides longer than two hours are not the best experience 

The Funny's

• On the Tro-Tro home, we experienced, nay, TREATED, to a 22 minute song about Jesus. Some of us loved, some loathed. All found amusing.
• We live right by the Pearly Gates. NO JOKE! (See photo below for evidence)

  

  The "Pearly Gates"

GOLD Love

XOXO

5 things we've learned on the first day of Project

We've arrived safe and sound in Ghana, and with just over 24 hours spent in Accra, we've managed to learn a thing or two about Ghanian culture. Here are the top five things we've learned on the first day of Project.

1) The Ghanaians seem unfriendly but are actually THE NICEST people

To a native English speaker, when we've overheard Ghanians speaking, they seem like they are shouting in full force at each other. But do not be fooled, they are not! We've been helped a lot today by loads of different people and have experienced so much kindness on our first day here - we're really excited for the next three weeks!

GOLD Ghana with Juliana and Zakiya

2) How, or how not, to get a Tro-Tro

A Tro-Tro is half bus/hald Tup-Tup. We managed to get on a bus that wasn't completely right (the wrong bus) but we had the most fun ever! Everyone was so kind and we kind of wish buses were like this in the UK!

3) The chicken is goooood in Ghana

Mhairi and Alice ordered some superb chicken this afternoon so we have concluded that the chicken in Ghana could be the best in the world. We'll keep you updated.

4) Mosquito nets are a fun way to keep fit

We've come up with some crazy solutions to the mosquito net problem. Judge for yourself who has the most inventive mosquito net hanging!

Sarah and Alice's double mosquito net of doom

Sarah's cave

Mhairi and Terri's mosquito net of fun

5) Africa time is real

We've noticed a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the UK. We love how relaxed and chill it is here and how nobody seems in a rush to do everything.

GOLD Love

XOXO

Meet the team - Mhairi Mackay

Its our last day in the UK which means we are introducing our last team member Mhairi! 

Name?

Mhairi Mackay

Where are you from?

I'm from Dalkeith in Midlothian which is a small county in Scotland! 

What do you do in Guiding?

I'm the Leader in charge with the 8th Penicuik Brownies, who are all super excited about me going to Ghana! I'm also a Peer Educator and about to be the Lead Volunteer for Peer Education which is an amazing role that I'm super proud to take on!

What's your favourite Guiding memory?

I have loads of amazing memories thanks to Guiding- and I'm pretty sure Ghana will be one to add to the list! I was lucky enough to go on the maiden journey of the Tall Ships Centenary race in 2010, which was an amazing opportunity and was my first proper adventure with Guiding. I also think doing my Gold Duke of Edinburgh recently with Girlguiding has to be one of my favourite moments, as I really pushed myself to my extremes, while being surrounded by an amazing group of women. Completing the challenge was one of those "mountain top" (quite literally) moments that I'll never forget.

Hardest thing you've done?

Apart from my Gold Duke of Edinburgh, I would say the hardest thing I've done is living abroad for a year. Not only was it hard living in a foreign country and being immersed in the language, it was hard being apart from friends and family. Although it was hard at first, its become something I'm really proud I've accomplished and makes me value other cultures and my own!

Fun fact not many people know?

(After consulting with my team apparently these two top facts are tied) Once upon a time, I had a radio show - which is still discoverable online somewhere... - where I played cheesy and guilty songs. I also hitchiked to Paris from Edinburgh in 22 hours, using no money of my own!

Favourite thing that begins with a G?

Grumble. Apparently a group of pugs is called a grumble. And I like pugs. Alot.

What are you most excited for on project?

I'm really excited to meet women from Ghana and share experiences with them. I'm looking forward to making instant friendships, which is all too common within Guiding. I'm excited to spend every day with my amazing team, getting to know them better each day, and forming the strongest friendships. Also the food. Mostly the food. Feed me.

GOLD Love

XOXO

Meet the team - Sarah Dale

Another day means another team member! Today we're introducing you to our amazing First Aider Sarah!

Name?

Sarah Dale

Where are you from?

Morecambe, which is a small seaside town in Lancashire, North West England.

What do you do in Guiding?

I am an Assistant Leader with 1st Heysham Guides and 1st Slyne-with-Hest Guides. I am also the Senior Section Advisor for Morecambe Division and I am currently involved in helping to grow Guiding in Lancashire North West.

What's your favourite Guiding memory?

This is a very difficult question, because I am very grateful for so many brilliant opportunities which I have experienced with Guiding since the age of seven when I joined my local Brownie unit. I always looked forward to every weekly session, and I went on a couple of Brownie pack holidays and day trips, such as to the Lake District, Lancaster and Blackpool, which were a lot of fun. Eating cheese sandwiches by Lake Windermere which had melted in the heat was certainly memorable. When I went to my first Guide session, it was thrilling to make little oil lamps in a clean baked bean tin and we lit them outside to toast marshmallows, which sparked a passion for outdoor cooking and camping. Toasting marshmallows on homemade fires on the beach at Half Moon Bay and watching the sun set is one of my favourite Guiding experiences, as well as taking part in camps to Silverdale, Waddow Hall and Sheffield. As a Young Leader and Ranger, I began to appreciate more fully the hard work which leaders put in to provide a wide variety of fun and unusual activities, and my self-confidence significantly increased. As an Assistant Leader it has been fantastic to see girls and women become comfortable in their own skin and take pleasure in trying new things, especially at the first Guide camp which I have recently organised. It was also wonderful to represent the UK at this year's Helen Storrow Seminar at Our Chalet in Switzerland and become good friends with women from different Guide and Scout organisations from across the world. I thoroughly enjoyed discussing ways in which we can actively tackle environmental issues in our local communities, and it was brilliant to share our cultures and languages with each other. It was a real pleasure to meet some of my 10 million Guiding sisters at this amazing event, especially as we instantly became friends due to our shared passions for Guiding and the environment.

 
Hardest thing you've ever done?

Public speaking has always been a big challenge for me, because I often feel extremely nervous when I stand up in front of a group of people. However my studies at university and my year abroad in particular required me to frequently give presentations and communicate with a large group of people on a regular basis, so I am very grateful for the support of my family, friends, peers, Guide leaders, colleagues and tutors in helping me to learn how to speak comfortably in front of others.

Fun fact that not many people know?

My voice has been recorded for GCSE-level English exams in Germany, which was a nerve-wracking and interesting experience.

Favourite thing that begins with G?

Generosity. I believe that kindness is the most important tool in life, because it can help individuals to be open, respectful citizens in a global community. I am very grateful for the generous support of others throughout my life and I strive to be there for others in order to help nurture self-respect and confidence in one's own abilities.

What are you most excited for on project?

I'm especially looking forward to immersing myself in the Ghanaian culture and to gaining a great insight into the structure of The Ghana Girl Guide Association. This will be my first trip outside of Europe, so I am very excited to be travelling to Ghana. I am also thrilled to be working with such a wonderful and inspiring bunch of women from across the UK. It has been fantastic to see our project take shape over the last few months and I can't wait to put our ideas into action!

GOLD Love

XOXO

Meet the team - Laura Gilfillan

We can now count the number of days until Project on one hand. (Its five by the way. FIVE!!) And we still have two member of our team to meet! So we'll crack on with that...

Introducing our lovely GOLD Leader Laura! 

Name?

Laura Gilfillan

Where are you from?

Ballinamallard, near Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland

What do you do in Guiding?

Assistant Leader with 11th Leamington Spa Brownies

What's your favourite Guiding memory?

So many to choose from!

As a Brownie, Brownie pack holiday up on the North Coast of Northern Ireland near Dunluce Castle and the Giant's Causeway.  Walking up Topped Mountain in Fermanagh in the summer term and having a hotdog after.

As a Guide, many damp camps in Fermanagh and a stay at the Guide Cottage at the Ulster HQ at Lorne.  On an evening walk along the shore, we got hit by the wake of the ferry from Scotland coming into Belfast Lough almost up to our waists. 

As a Senior Section member, an international camp to Norway when I was 18. I was selected to go with 12 other girls from across Ulster and it was an amazing trip with all meals cooked on an open fire with the ingredients collected each day. A full day hiking and camping out in a shelter we built with a torrential thunderstorm almost throughout, drop toilets and a lake to wash in.

As a leader with my own Brownies, watching how the girls confidence grows and how they bond during the performance of our bi-annual show over a week when they do three full performances.  Also seeing my Brownies a year or two into Guides and how they have continued to grow.

As a GOLD participant, meeting all the inspiring young women from across the UK during the selection weekend and spending an amazing three weeks in Latvia with my brilliant 2015 team who are now firmly lifelong friends. Going to a different country to work with their Guides and Scouts was both similar and very different to the UK and a great experience I'll never forget.

As GOLD Ghana 2016 team leader, meeting another bunch of wonderful woman from all corners of the UK. Learning their strengths, of which there are many, and what they may struggle with. Watching how the team has bonded and worked together so far, I have no doubts that project is going to be fantastic. 

Hardest thing you've ever done?

Accept when I can't do something or that things may not work out how I would like them to and learn to give things and myself time to sort themselves out.

Fun fact that not many people know?

On a trip to Japan to visit my brother in 2010, I danced in the worlds third largest dance festival Awa Odori in Tokushima. We were dressed in the traditional costume by locals and taught the dance which we then performed along the Main Street stage. The festival runs over three days and it was another unforgettable experience.

Favourite thing that begins with G?

Granny. She will be 98 this year and even when you don't explain everything that's going on, she responds with exactly the right empathy and sound advice. She carries on regardless and it is amazing to think of all the things and changes that see has witnessed throughout her lifetime. For someone who really doesn't travel well either, she's been to all corners of the world and always has good advice in that regard too.

What are you most excited for on project?

Going to a completely different country and culture and getting to fully experience the culture which the GOLD project leads itself to as we will be working with the local communities in several regions of the country. I also can't wait to put into practise the preparations the team have made and see the team working together during the training sessions. We will also provide the much needed support to one another throughout the time and I'm looking forward to all the laughs.

GOLD Love 

XOXO

Meet the team - Sarah Haigh

Memories!! Our first time meeting at first briefing!

Ten days until Project. I REPEAT: Ten days until Project!

Now that all the excitement is over, let's meet our amazingly organised and all-round superstar Resources Coordinator Sarah!

Name? Sarah Haigh

Where are you from? Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, but currently living in South Manchester

What do you do in Guiding? I run a Guide unit in South Manchester, and I'm also District Commissioner for a small area

What's your favourite Guiding memory? This is a difficult one.... despite many international trips, I would say Division camp circa 2008... we had Guides and Senior Section camping, Brownies in the house, Rainbows visiting for the day and Trefoil Guild staying over too. I was catering the campsite for 100 and had my two Guiding Mentors, my Mum who was commissioner and my Guiding 'Auntie' Margaret (80 odd years old), around the first with me cooking. 3 generations of Guiding Tradition, all debating how much wood was required to cook bacon for so many - loved it!

Hardest thing you've ever done? The Times cryptic crossword. I worked behind a bar for a bit and a local gave me 20p every time I could explain to him how he got the answer from the clue.... I made 20p. 

Fun fact that not many people know? I keep a farm of promotional stuffed animals on the radiator/ windowsill behind my desk at work. They are presided over by a small foam farmer.... the cleaner at work talks to them......

Favourite thing that begins with G? Gin! (can i say gin?) - I do have a collection and love being introduced to new craft batches and combinations!

What are you most excited for on Project?Discovery, but also getting some perspective. I want to get away, concentrate on the job in hand and spend time with my team. I really think that it will give me a new outlook on life and help me in so many ways.

GOLD Love XOXO

Meet the team - Terri Measey

5/6 of us around a campfire! (It is Guiding after all)

When hundreds of emails fly into your inbox about kit, training and train timings you know its TWO WEEKS UNTIL PROJECT!!!

To mark the occasion, we're introducing Terri - our amazing Treasurer for our Project.

Name? - Terri Louise Measey

Where are you from? - Rugby, Warwickshire

What do you do in guiding? - I am super busy and active in Guiding, at the heart of it all is my Brownie unit which I have been part of since I was a guide. I am also a Division Commissioner for Rugby, Peer Education Co-ordinator for Warwickshire and a Mentor to new leaders in Rugby.

Whats your favourite guiding memory? - Wow what to choose from I have done so much in Guiding that picking one is difficult, I started guiding as a Rainbow at 5, I loved going every week and progressed to brownies and then guides. My guide leader was a huge influence on what I did next. She let me become a Pack leader at 11 with the brownie unit from this I progressed to young leader and then unit leader. Going away as a Guide to camps and then taking my brownies away for the first time on a day trip and then a sleepover working up to a camp. Watching the brownies take so much enjoyment in what we do each week, seeing them grow and develop. My first international trip to Switzerland including a trip to Our chalet. Spending 10 days at sea on the Lord Nelson a tall ship designed for all abilities to celebrate the centenary. And finial achieving my Queens Guide award this was one of the biggest challenges I have ever undertaken and very overwhelmed when it was presented by my Division and at Parliament.

Terri ft. Rosie (the cutest pup in the world)

Hardest thing you have ever done? - Saying NO! iam rubbish as I want to do everything and trying to work out what is achievable and what isn't is very difficult. I like helping people and I don't like turning people away.

Fun fact that many people don't know? - umm this is difficult, let me think about this one

Favourite thing beginning with G? - Growth  I know this sounds really cheesy, being able to grow myself in my career, life and volunteering. Also having the unique opportunity to help others grow and aim for the stars.

What are you most excited for on Project? - Can I just say everything? This is a completely new experience for me, going to Africa Ive never been before, Working with a new team of people and  I cant wait to share the knowledge that ive gained over the past 11 years as a leader.

So....the fun fact about yourself?- I used to be a campanologist this is a bell ringer, I rang the hand bells as a guide and performed at Christmas carol services, I then progressed to Ringing the church bells at services and weddings

GOLD Love 

XOXO

Meet the team - Alice Brown

Representing Ghana at our Fourth Briefing fireworks rendezvous

As we're getting closer and closer to project (16 days) - we think its high time you met Gold Ghana 2016! So we're kicking our introductions off with our fabulous First Aider, Alice!

Name?

Alice Brown

Where are you from?

Tonteg, near Pontypridd ( about half an hour away from Cardiff)

What do you do in Guiding?

I am a part time assistant leader at 2nd Tonteg Guides and a member of 1st Llantwit Farder Ranges

What's your favourite Guiding memory?

So many memories to choose from but one that really sticks out in my mind is being dropped off at Hartlepool to meet with a group of girls that i had never met before, to sail many miles on a ship with no experience. Most people would feel worried about doing such a big thing with people they don't know but i wasn't because it was with Guiding! In Guiding you can always guarantee that no matter what your doing or who it's with, you will always walk away from the event with at least one new friend if not many!!

Hardest thing you've ever done?

The hardest thing i'v ever done would be complete the Cardiff Half Marathon. The last 2 miles where a killer

Fun fact that not many people know?

My dream vehicle/ home to own would be a lime green and white VW Van, with purple and white interior.

Favourite thing that begins with G?

Well my favourite colour is green!!!

What are you most excited for on project?

I'm excited about the challenge of training, having never run any training session before, let alone in a totally new culture and not knowing exactly what we are in store for!!

GOLD Love 

XOXO

Better late than never: Team Ghana's Third Briefing

As one of the last teams to go out on project, it seems only sensible that our third briefings would be later than everyone else's too. Lucky for us though, we get to spend more time together planning and getting to know each other as a team! Yay!

Team Ghana trampolining in STYLE

So, on the first weekend in July, all of us reunited at Sarah's house in Manchester. And here's what we got up to:

8:30am- Rise and Shine! We were all greeted by the lovely smell of bagels and other yummy breakfast items- Thanks Sarah! The night before we recieved our offical Ghana uniforms from Laura (they look so cool!!)

9am- Create a checklist- 26 items long! We had a LOT to discuss...

9:01am- Start checklist- Slowly but surely we began to check things off the list. We chatted about fundraising and badges. If you want to support us, we have a challenge badge for you! Send us a message on https://www.facebook.com/GOLDGhana2016/ if you want to complete it with your Units!

10:08am- Cat snuggle time- Sarah's cat Megatron (or Megs for short) was getting loads of attention from Team Ghana. If only we could take him with us...

10:15am- Resume planning- With a lot to plan, cat cuddles had to be kept to a minimum

12:30pm- Nom Nom Nom- Possibly the favourite bit of the day.

1:30pm- Planning our days off- Although we'll be pretty busy whilst on project, we have planned a few things to squeeze into our time off. We really enjoyed learning about Ghana's sandy white beaches and animal packed nature reserves!

5/6 of Team Ghana around the campfire!

4:00pm- Bouncin'!- After hours of planning, we took a well-deserved break and hit the trampoline park, Alice nearly didn't come back after a nosedive which may or may not have been fuelled by Mhairi... Sorry Al!

6:00pm- Dinnertime- After a good long bounce, we headed off to a vegetarian restuarant which had the best food and the best company.

9:00pm- Toasting Marshmallows and Bed- What would a Guiding weekend be without a campfire?




So Team Ghana had a wonderful weekend planning our project. We are so excited for our Fourth Briefing in two weeks time so we can continue to plan for our upcoming trip!

GOLD Love XOXO

A Great Big Welcome!

Welcome to the GOLD Ghana 2016 blog!

We are a group of six women about to embark on the journey of a lifetime. Our amazing team is made up of Laura, Sarah H, Sarah D, Terri, Alice and Mhairi. But more on us later...

So what exactly is a GOLD project?

Guiding Overseas Linked with Development (GOLD) are projects that are run by Girlguiding UK for women ages between 18 and 30. GOLD has been running since 1991 and has visited over 30 countries across the world. GOLD teams are made up of 6 leaders who aim to complete projects that are sustainable and run between three and five years.

Our project will be primarily concentrating on training Leaders and developing a sustainable training programme for use within Ghana.

Fun Fact: GOLD Ghana 2016 also has the added bonus of being the only team that has a member from all countries in the UK. Laura is from Northern Ireland, Alice from Wales, Mhairi from Scotland and Sarah H, Sarah D and Terri are from England!

If you want to keep up on all of our adventures in the lead up to our project you should follow us:

Twitter: @GOLDGhana2016
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GOLDGhana2016/

GOLD Love xoxo