Member Spotlight :

“Even at 85, I still believe GFS can transform lives, and every time a girl finds her voice, I’m reminded why we started.”

Welcome to my story. It’s one rooted in faith, friendship, and a lifelong belief in the power of girls.

It’s been more than 65 years since I first joined the Girls’ Friendly Society, and I’m still here. Not because of habit or obligation, but because GFS continues to speak to something sacred in me: a belief that every young girl and young woman deserves a safe place to grow, to lead, and to be seen.

Through seasons of joy and heartbreak, change and constancy, GFS has been my companion. I’ve witnessed generations of girls blossom into women who use their voices with courage and compassion. I’ve watched friendships form that reach across boundaries and countries. I’ve seen how a simple invitation to belong can spark a lifetime of strength.

What keeps me going isn’t nostalgia, it’s purpose. GFS isn't just a part of my past; it’s part of my legacy. It’s the heartbeat of everything I hope for: a kinder world where girls are not just encouraged but empowered.

That heartbeat is also spiritual. My walk with GFS has always been guided by a deep and abiding faith, a force within me that fuels my hope, my courage, and my vision. It is the spiritual compass that grounds my every action and intention. When I see a young woman rise, I see divine grace in motion. When I advocate for justice or inclusion, I feel the breath of something larger moving through me.

Even at 85 years old, that spirit within me remains as alive as ever. I am always asking how GFS can make a deeper, more lasting impact on young girls and young women today, in a world that feels more troubled and uncertain than ever. I believe we must be bold in our compassion, daring in our inclusivity, and unwavering in our belief that every girl matters.

There is wisdom in tradition, yes, but even more in transformation. GFS has grown and adapted, lifting up programs that ignite boldness and brilliance. Initiatives like Orange Day remind me that advocacy starts with listening and that the cry for justice knows no borders.

I stay involved because I’ve seen how this movement changes lives. Because I believe we must continue to build spaces where grace meets courage. every time a young girl finds her footing in this world, I’m reminded why we started.

After 65 years, GFS is not just something I was part of. It is something that continues to be part of me spiritually, emotionally, and purposefully. It remains my prayer in action, my legacy of love, and my sacred calling

I began my venture with GFS in 1964 accidentally. I was asked to form a youth choir which did not work out at all. Then, to my surprise, the girls in the group asked me to join GFS. I was not familiar with this organization at all.

I met with the leaders, and the rest is history. I have always worked in church even when I was in college because it gave me a purpose.

I have attended National Assembly since 1969 and World Council since 1975. I have missed only 1 National Assembly and 2 World Council, because it was a conflict with traveling with my choral group. This has been such a rewarding experience to see girls at different stages of their lives; and to see their achievements in life. You know that your mission is fulfilled when you see them bloom and when they become mothers and bring their girls to be a part of GFS.

Our job through the years is to nourish them and supply them with the tools they need.

GFS and music have been a great part of my life. For me, it is a joy to go to meetings, sit in a corner and see that our young people are in charge. I have served on several committees and on the National Board as vice president, president and chair of the nominating committee.

The future of GFS will depend upon the younger members. We must admit that the legacy of this organization dies with us without the involvement of our youth. My advice is to allow their participation with encouragement to keep GFS active and relevant to the needs of today. I would encourage us to collaborate, connect and to be in community as well as communion with each other. May all who serve be blessed as I have been blessed. GFS have a lot to offer. Our younger members are the ones who will sustain this organization. We must allow them to lead with an open mind.