Sophie is a volunteer from Forth Valley who is running the London marathon to raise money for Girlguiding. She shares her story:  

“From attending Rainbows, Brownies and Guides as a child, to volunteering as an adult, Guiding has been a constant thread in my life. It’s where I learned to speak up, try new things, and say “yes” to adventure.   

It is where I, as well as many others, found a space to be myself, be challenged, and gain invaluable life skills.  

I’m raising money for Girlguiding because I want to give back to an organisation that shaped so much of who I am today. I would love nothing more than to help young girls across the country grow up in the environment I did. Girlguiding gave me some incredible opportunities and experiences I would never have had otherwise. 

My Experience 

Through guiding, I participated in a two-week-long service project in Merida, Mexico, with 9 other Guides aged 14 to 16. This was such a formative point in my life; I grew in confidence and made long lasting friendships. I also had the opportunity to go interrailing across Europe on a scavenger race with hundreds of other Guides. 

However, it is not just these big events that make Girlguiding so brilliant. Every week volunteers plan activities, fun and games for their units, helping girls grow in confidence. Their dedication is outstanding. 

When I was a young member, every week we were trying something new, whether that was being supported in our badge work, or looking forward to a song around the campfire! 

My main unit growing up was the 6th Stenhouse Guides. Since then, I have been in and volunteered at many units at home, while at university, and even when I worked in London. The welcome I have had in every unit makes me so proud to be fundraising for Girlguiding. I want to help make sure that cost is not a barrier for girls wanting to get involved in guiding. 

Marathon training 

This will be my first time taking on a marathon. I am so proud that it is the London Marathon, a city that I and Girlguiding are so connected to. It is such an iconic race and I am really looking forward to taking part. Hopefully, all my training will come together! 

I enjoy running, but marathon training is definitely a step up from what I am used to. It takes a lot more energy and time, but I get through it by knowing I’m doing it to support Girlguiding.  

Fundraising is important as the money raised helps to ensure that girls across the UK can continue to access the same experiences as I did. Being able to combine such a personal challenge with raising money for an organisation that means so much to me makes the whole experience even more special. 

I’ve set up an online fundraising page and have been sharing training updates with family and friends. I have also organised smaller fundraising activities like bake sales and workplace collections, as well as some second-hand selling.” 

If you’d like to donate to Sophie’s fundraising efforts click here.