Young Rochdale women return from Moroccan adventure

Emily and Jessica in Morocco

Emily O’Reilly a young leader with the 21st Rochdale Guides and Jessica Timperley a member of the 44th Rochdale Guides and Rangers, have returned from a life-changing community action trip to Morocco.

Emily and Jessica both aged 15, were chosen to take part in Girlguiding North West England’s community action project in Imlil, high in the Atlas Mountains.

Eleven young members aged from 15-26 travelled to Morocco for two weeks to work with the local community in Imlil taking part in tasks such as working with local children, clearing rubbish from the countryside and sprucing up the women’s centre. The participants also had the opportunity to experience what daily life is like for a woman in Morocco, by spending time with some of the women in the group.

Emily, who is from Smithy Bridge and a student at Wardle High School in Rochdale, said: “My favourite thing about the trip was working with the children; it was the best feeling ever watching the smiles on their faces and seeing how much they were enjoying themselves. The trip made me realise how much we take for granted. It was the most amazing experience of my life, and I have learnt so much from it. I think it was a one in a life time chance and would definitely recommend it to others!”

Jessica, who is from Wardle and in year 11 at Beech House School in Rochdale, said: “The best part about the trip was meeting and spending time with all the girls from around the North West and having experiences I otherwise would have never had like trekking up a huge mountain! I would definitely recommend other girls to do this trip or something similar, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Sue Lomas, Chief Commissioner for Girlguiding North West England said: “One of the reasons I volunteer with Girlguiding UK is to ensure girls and young women are able have life changing experiences like this one. This was an amazing opportunity for our young members and I’m thrilled that they took so much from it.”

Girlguiding North West England has committed to working with the project for at least three years from 2011. Although the community service tasks will change year on year the constant element is working with the women's group who meet on a regular basis to try to improve their lives. Girlguiding North West England members will work with them on ways in which they can make money to support themselves such as making handicrafts to sell or share other skills such as using computers, self esteem or personal development.