In a captivating display of recognition, the Central Province President’s Guide Award Ceremony was held last week on Sunday (06) within the grandeur of the Dharmaraja College Auditorium.
This pivotal event saw the distinguished presence of the Chief Guest, Dr. Hiroshini Welikumura, alongside key figures from the Sri Lanka Girl Guides Association (SLGGA) executive board.
The occasion marked a milestone as over 60 young girl guides hailing from the districts of Kandy, Matale, and Nuwara Eliya were recognized with the esteemed President’s Guide Award. 
The ceremony’s vibrant inauguration included the welcoming of prominent guests, such as the Chief Guest; Dr. Hiroshini Welikumura, Chief Commissioner; Sulari Jayawardena, Deputy Chief Commissioner; Dr. Kushantha Hetrath and an assembly of commissioners, past commissioners, guide captains and more by butterflies, little friends, Girl Guides, and the rangers of the Central province.
With the solemnity of purpose, the colorful procession of flags took place, signifying unity and the shared commitment of the participants. The National Flag, the World Girl Guides’ Association Flag, the Sri Lanka Girl Guides’ Association Flag, and others were gracefully handed over, setting the tone for the event.
Amidst the aura of tradition, the ceremonial oil lamp was illuminated, symbolizing enlightenment and hope. The poignant Girl Guide Promise, a reflection of their ideals, resonated deeply among the participants. A renewal of vows added a personal touch to the proceedings.
Reflecting on the past year’s accomplishments of the Central Province Girl Guide Association, a sense of pride and unity colored the ceremony.
The highlight of the day, the President’s Guide Award, recognized the dedication of more than 60 girl guides. A pinnacle of achievement, it symbolized their journey from initiation to this prestigious honour.
Esteemed personalities, namely Sulari Jayawardena, the Chief Commissioner of SLGGA, Dr. Kushantha Herath, the Deputy Chief Commissioner, and Wajira Silva, the Commissioner of Planning and Progress Review, had the honor of presenting this esteemed accolade to the girl guides. The announcement of the distinguished award recipients was conducted by Madam Nayana Adikari, the President Guide Coordinator for the Central Province.
In an address brimming with inspiration, Sulari Jayawardena; Chief Commissioner of SLGGA illuminated the gathering with her profound insights, recognizing the transformative power that the girl guide movement holds. With eloquence and passion, she underscored the movement’s ability to shape not only the lives of the guides but also the broader community, emphasizing the ripple effect of empowerment, unity, and service. 
Madam Maduralatha Rambukpotha, the first Provincial Commissioner of the Central Province, bestowed warrant certificates and badges upon guide captains, valuing their significant role in shaping the movement.
The presence of Chief Guest Dr. Hiroshini Welikumura, an accomplished alumna of Hillwood College, Kandy, and a President’s Guide herself, lent prestige to the event. Her remarkable journey served as an inspiration to the young attendees, emphasizing the importance of balance between academics and extracurricular activities. 
As the day drew to a close, Madam Harshini Rathnayake, Central Province District Commissioner, extended heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event.
The ceremony concluded with the solemn recitation of Taps, marking the end of a memorable day. This event will undoubtedly etch a remarkable chapter in the history of the girl guide movement, leaving an indelible mark on the journey of each participant.
As Lord Baden-Powell, the visionary founder of the global Scout and Guide movement, once said, “Leave this world a little better than you found it.” These young guides are exemplars of this ethos, and their efforts shone brightly at the ceremony.
-Sachinthani Ketakumbura-
