A Harrogate volunteer is set to be recognised at a national celebration after nearly three decades of service to Girlguiding.
Jean Tennant, who leads the 28th Harrogate Guides, has been nominated to attend the Girlguiding Celebrates event in Manchester on October 11th.
The red-carpet occasion will bring together award-winning volunteers and nominees from across the country to acknowledge their contribution to the UK’s largest youth organisation dedicated solely to girls.
Jean has been involved with Girlguiding since 1997, starting as a unit helper in Berkhamsted before taking on a range of leadership roles, including County Commissioner, Leadership Mentor, and County Vice-President.
Her volunteering journey has spanned Hertfordshire and North Yorkshire, and today she continues to inspire young people in Harrogate through weekly activities and special events.
Speaking about her nomination, Jean said it felt particularly special because it came from a parent.
“I joined Girlguiding when I was in my mid-30s. I chose to volunteer as I felt I could give back some of my life skills to the girls and young women in Girlguiding.
"I’ve done my best through my 27 years to keep my Guide unit as a priority above my other roles.
"I have tried to embrace all the changes Girlguiding have introduced over the years, and I still strive to keep my Guide programme interesting, relevant, and fun.”
Over the years, Jean has led Guides through activities ranging from scuba diving, fencing and archery to theatre trips, outdoor cooking and orienteering.
She has also taken part in international experiences such as building an igloo in Switzerland and gliding in Bedfordshire.
Parents of the Guides say Jean’s dedication has made a lasting difference.
One parent, Ruth, said:
“Jean is so organised, responsive, and dedicated to helping the girls all while being a volunteer.
"She has arranged many different activities helping to bring the girls together socially to have shared experiences and fun.
"She also demonstrably brings so much experience; it’s a pleasure seeing her work from afar.
"I know I can rely on her and I’m proud she is a Guide leader for my daughter’s group. They are lucky. It’s incredible she does all of this as a volunteer.”
Girlguiding supports over 300,000 girls aged 4 to 18 across the UK.
Through badges, activities and challenges, the organisation aims to build confidence, promote wellbeing and encourage ambition.
The upcoming Girlguiding Celebrates event at ODEON Manchester Great Northern will feature entertainment, treats and a red-carpet welcome for volunteers like Jean whose efforts continue to shape young lives.
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