3-7 November is Trustees’ Week! A week dedicated to celebrating, supporting and inspiring trustees. At Girlguiding Scotland our work is overseen by 12 trustees, appointed for their skills, expertise and commitment to our vision. Erin, 1 of our 18-30 member trustees, has written about her experience so far being on our trustee board: 

When I joined the Girlguiding Scotland trustee board at 21, I knew I was stepping into something that would challenge my skills and confidence in new ways. I had grown up in guiding, but contributing to decision-making at a national level was something entirely different. I wondered what it would feel like to hold such responsibility, and how I’d find my place in conversations about governance, finance, and the organisation’s future. More than 2 years into my role as an 18 to 30 member trustee, I’ve learned that you don’t need to arrive with all the answers. What really matters is being willing to learn, listen, and get involved!

On the board, we balance strategic oversight with practical decision-making. That can mean reviewing accounts, monitoring risk, and supporting good governance throughout the organisation. We also look to the future, strengthening our focus on equity, diversity and inclusion, enhancing the experience for staff and volunteers, and creating new opportunities for girls. Much of this work happens through collaboration, whether with each other, staff teams, volunteers, or girls. Every conversation helps keep the organisation safe, sustainable, and moving forward.

What makes the experience truly special is the people. Few teams demonstrate leadership with heart better than the Girlguiding Scotland trustee board. Our conversations are open, honest, and often lively, but always rooted in respect and a shared belief in what guiding can achieve. We encourage and challenge one another, recognise each other’s expertise and strengths, and share a genuine drive to help the organisation flourish so that all girls know they can do anything. It’s a space where every voice matters and where we’re inspired to learn and grow together.

On a personal level, being part of the board has been transformative. From the start, I’ve been supported to build my understanding of governance and leadership without ever feeling like my perspective mattered less. My voice has been welcomed not in spite of my age or experience, but because of it. Girlguiding Scotland doesn’t just say it listens to young people, it truly does, and this is embedded in every level of its decision-making. I’ve learned how effective governance creates space for creativity and progress, and how to make decisions that balance ambition with care. I’ve grown more confident in my judgement, developed new skills, and seen first-hand how teamwork and shared purpose can drive change. Being a trustee has shown me how much difference thoughtful leadership can make, not just to an organisation, but to the people within it.

Trustees’ Week is a great reminder that, while much of what keeps Girlguiding Scotland running happens quietly behind the scenes, we’re not distant decision makers. We’re volunteers who share the same dedication and enthusiasm as every leader, staff member, and girl involved. I’m deeply grateful to my fellow trustees for their insight and encouragement, and to the volunteers and young members whose ideas and energy inspire every decision we make.

The future of Girlguiding Scotland feels bright, and I’m proud to play even a small part in shaping it. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved in leadership within guiding, I really encourage you to explore it. You don’t need to have everything figured out, what matters is curiosity, enthusiasm, and belief in the difference guiding can make. Girlguiding Scotland is powered by many voices, and it grows stronger every time one more is heard.

Find out more about our trustees and the people at Girlguiding Scotland here.