So you want to Go for GOLD?
The 60-second lowdown on Go for Gold from three former participants
GOLD (Guiding overseas linked with development) gives you the chance to make a difference across the world, experience new cultures and develop your skills.
Every year, we send teams of young women aged 18-30 to locations from Belize to Oman for the adventure of a lifetime. The first step is applying for Go for GOLD – the selection weekend where you can get a taste of life on a GOLD trip.
We got the 60 second lowdown from some former GOLD participants to find out what it’s really like to take part in Go for GOLD.
Stephanie – GOLD Peru 2018
What was the best part of Go for GOLD?
Feeling like a part of a bigger community than just my local area. Realising we all knew the same songs and games. And that everyone was kind and supportive, because we’re all part of Girlguiding, so had the same enthusiasm and values.
How would you sum up GOLD in three words?
Family. Inspiring. Life-changing!
What would you say to anyone looking to apply?
Just do it - don't worry about fundraising, or nerves, or anything else that may be holding you back. It’s 100% worth it and the most outstanding project you'll ever work on. I wish I could do it again every year.
Sophie – GOLD Ghana 2015
What was the best part of Go for GOLD?
The Friday evening, when we were all putting our tents up. Everyone was helping each other and willing to get stuck in with people they had never met before in order to get the job done!
And the biggest challenge?
As a fairly shy person, the biggest challenge was meeting such a huge amount of new people in one go!
How would you sum up GOLD in three words?
Life-changing, inspiring and phenomenal!
What would you say to anyone looking to apply?
Go for it! You’ll never get another opportunity like this again. It’s hands down the best thing that I’ve ever done. I’ve met new friends, visited new countries, learnt new games, songs and ideas and have been inspired by so many incredible women from across the whole world. The girls that I went on GOLD with are still my best friends now!
Megan, GOLD Oman 2017
What was the best part of Go for GOLD?
“Shopping” for our food at the breakfast market, then cooking a meal - with an added challenge that I won’t reveal - and eating whatever we had in front of us. My team had a vegetable casserole type dish.
And the biggest challenge?
Trying to avoid the huge puddles in the tent that had a leak…
How would you sum up GOLD in three words?
Breath-taking, rewarding and challenging.
What would you say to anyone looking to apply?
Go for it even if it takes you out of your comfort zone. You’ll come back a different girl and be so proud of what you have achieved.
