Their Excellencies Sir Rodney and Lady Williams joined leaders of both the Girl Guides and Scouts Associations of Antigua and Barbuda in celebration of World Thinking day and Founders Day, at a special service held at Spring Gardens Moravian Church last Sunday .

Lady Williams delivered the feature address , which focused on this year ‘s theme , “Our Friendships” . She remarked , “As Patron of the Girl Guides Association, I am always deeply encouraged when I see our young people gathered in worship and unity . Today reminds us that this movement is not only about skills and badges . It is also about relationships.”

With reference to past campaigns which have been undertaken, she stressed : “I am so proud that our Guides across the island proclaim to stand in support of gender-based violence . This is true friendship . This is what courage looks like . This is the magnetism of unity.”

Lady Williams encouraged the young members of the uniformed bodies present to continue to work hard , in order to be selected by their leaders for the 2026 Guiding Light Award and medal presented by the Halo Foundation.

Her Excellency praised the Girl Guides for having recently hosted their very first Talent Show and Thinking Day Pageant . “This initiative indeed says a lot”, she said . “The workshops leading up to the “Power of Friendship Pageant” help to build solidarity and teamwork. It says that you all , as a group, are on the right track to even more intense and inspiring camaraderie. And of your innovation and collaboration, we couldn’t be prouder.”

Before closing , she referred to the relevant undertakings of His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams. “As the nation’s Chief Scout, the Governor General continues to provide active leadership and unwavering support to the Scouting movement.

Later this month, he will once again chair the Annual General Meeting of the Antigua and Barbuda Scouts Association at Government House — a reflection of his continued commitment to engage with leaders and strengthen the organisation at every level. His dedication affirms the importance of Scouting and Guiding in shaping the character and confidence of our young people .”

The service was spearheaded by Chief Commissioners of the Scouts and Guides , Mrs . Patricia Salmon and Mrs . Suzette Spencer-Burton, with Rev. Judy Winspeare-Philip as the officiating Minister.