The following story was submitted by Troop Leader Nicole Scott of Monroeville Troop 50174.
The anticipation of travel filled the air on February 3, 2024, at Cross Roads Church in Monroeville as Girl Scouts filed in from Monroeville, Plum, Mercer, and Erie. It was a World Thinking Day event hosted by Troop 50174.
On February 22, 1926, Thinking Day was established by Girl Guide and Girl Scout delegates at the World Conference, where they presented the need for a day to think about the worldwide impact of Girl Scouts and give fellow sisters thanks and appreciation.
For the past 98 years, Girl Scouts of the USA put out a theme, and this year it was “Our World, Our Thriving Future: The Environment and Poverty.”
Upon arriving at the event, the leaders were presented with passports for each of their Girl Scouts attending and World Thinking Day badges. They would then follow a schedule to visit Brazil, England, Syria, and Germany from 1:30-3 p.m.
Girl Scouts is all about being girl-led, and four of our seven troops researched Brazil, England, Syria, and Germany. They prepared food, crafts, and trifold research displays. The other troops traveled to the countries in the church classrooms and the presenting troops were able to share what they learned and expand their sister Girl Scouts’ minds.
After the 55 girls visited the “girl-led countries,” they were elated to get beautiful Henna body art from a local Syrian woman, Oula Ghani, her daughter, Mila, and her family friend, Lamar.
Some of the troops were also able to visit a young man from Liberia, Vincent Williams, learn the history of his country, and see his official passport and a few traditional clothing and fabrics from his country.
While the girls sat to unwind after a fun-filled “vacation,” they were able to recharge with some hummus and pita chips from Syria, cucumber sandwiches from England, Brazilian delights and cookies from Brazil, and potato soup from Germany. All of these treats were made by the troops who presented the countries.
As they snacked, they were able to look through books provided by the Monroeville Public Library. Hope Benson, Children’s Librarian, made vibrant signs for each country and located nonfiction and fiction books for each country.
After their respite, they had an amazing surprise from the Bengali Association of Pittsburgh—Minakshi Poddar, an Indian dancer. Mrs. Poddar had a slideshow showcasing her home country, and then she danced beautifully. One of the dances was interactive, and the girls were able to join her and learn some native dance moves.
I am honored to be one of the co-leaders who planned this phenomenal event. The other powerful woman is Rosanna Weaver. Our vision was to present the Girl Scout community with a fun, enlightening, and inspiring event that would showcase the diversity in our community and the world.
GSWPA 