Amplify: giving girls a voice in Girlguiding

Starting in 2022, Amplify is Girlguiding’s youth steering group.

We use our unique lived experiences to help shape Girlguiding and represent members from all over the UK.

Ever wondered how Girlguiding ensures young voices shape its future? That’s where Amplify comes in. We're a group of 30 girls, aged 12–18 from across the country, who meet monthly. We discuss everything from badges, to organisational strategy and give input on matters that directly impact members – locally and across the country.

My journey to Amplify

My Amplify journey began 2 years ago, right after I completed my campaigning badge. I was drawn to that badge because it felt different from all the others I had earned. Most badges I’d completed before focused on developing individual skills – such as map reading or photography. However, the campaigning badge was about something bigger and actively making a real difference in my community.

For my badgework, I chose to focus on the importance of listening to young people’s voices in large organisations. I strongly believe that if decisions affect us, we should have a say. This research led me to explore how much influence young members hold across Girlguiding and that’s how I discovered Amplify.

Taking the leap

At first, applying felt terrifying. I doubted whether I was confident enough to be part of something so important, however the leadership skills I’d gained through my campaigning badge gave me the confidence to push past my fear – and I’m so glad I did! A few months later, I found myself at my first Amplify induction residential – making friends and eating lots of s’mores. I quickly realised that everyone was just as nervous (and excited!) as I was.

One moment that really stuck with me from that first residential was sitting around the campfire together – we had so much energy, even by the fourth repeat of “alive, alert, awake, enthusiastic”! Looking back, that perfectly sums up what Amplify is all about. That same warmth and enthusiasm is what fuels girl-voice.

My first impressions of Amplify were incredibly positive. Everyone was so welcoming and supportive. I quickly realised it wasn’t just about having a seat at the table, it was also about being listened to and trusted. It felt amazing to be in a space where girls from all over the country could openly share their views, challenge ideas, and work together to shape the future of Girlguiding.

What we’ve achieved

Being part of Amplify has opened doors to incredible opportunities. Just a few highlights include:

• Helping create 72 new interest badges.
• Contributing to the uniform redesign.
• Shaping the peer education programme.

The list goes on! My favourite part of being in Amplify is is knowing that the work we do has a real, visible impact. Whether it’s consulting on new badges or helping design the new handbooks, knowing that future members will benefit from decisions we helped make is hugely empowering.

Why Amplify matters

Amplify has given me the confidence to speak up and make a difference. It’s proof that when girls have a voice, amazing things happen. If you’re thinking about applying, my advice is simple, go for it. You’ll gain skills, make friends and help shape the future of Girlguiding.

I couldn’t recommend applying more! So, what are you waiting for?