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International pen friends

Throughout the world there are 10 million girls and young women who are embracing the opportunities open to them through Guiding and Girl Scouting. When Guides from different countries have the chance to strike up a friendship they often find they have much in common, while having a unique chance to learn about different cultures and lifestyles.

Fostering such links is one of the most special aspects of being part of the worldwide guiding movement. Modern methods of communication make it possible to make contact with Guides in other parts of the world without needing to use your passport!

Ideas for finding a guiding pen pal

Establishing contacts with Girl Guides or Girl Scouts elsewhere in the world should generally take place at unit-to-unit level, rather than being initiated by individual young members. Leaders looking for pen pals for girls in their unit may wish to use one of the following routes:

 • Find out from your County International Adviser if your County has any contacts with Guiding groups overseas.

 • Visit the website of another member organisation of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.

Use the Girlguiding Facebook page and WAGGGS Facebook page to make contact with Guides in other parts of the UK or the world. Facebook accounts are only available to those aged over 13 and make sure you read the Girlguiding online safety guidelines.

Girlguiding Pen Pal Scheme

In recognition of the shift in communication methods over recent years and due to dwindling interest, the Girlguiding Pen Pal Scheme is no longer in operation.

Guides Reconnected

If you were a Rainbow, Brownie, Guide or Leader with Girlguiding, or you are a current member in search of old friends, join the Guides Reconnected Facebook Group.

Find out more about our World Centres in London, Switzerland, India and Mexico here.World Centres