Key Points:
- Global Celebration: World Thinking Day, celebrated annually on February 22, unites Girl Guides and Girl Scouts worldwide to reflect on international friendship, empowerment, and global challenges.
- 2025 Theme: This year’s theme, “Our Story,” encourages members to explore the history of their movement, share personal experiences, and inspire change through storytelling.
- Historical Significance: Established in 1926, the day honors the birthdays of Lord Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Scouting movement, and Lady Olave Baden-Powell, the first World Chief Guide.
- Activities and Goals: The day promotes global unity through events, fundraising for underprivileged communities, and discussions on issues like gender equality, education, and environmental sustainability.
- Empowering Youth: The celebration emphasizes the role of young people in shaping a better future through shared values and collective action.
Every year on February 22, millions of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts across 150 countries come together to celebrate World Thinking Day. This global event is more than just a celebration it is a call to action that fosters international friendship, reflection, and empowerment. In 2025, the theme “Our Story” invites members to explore their shared history while inspiring them to create a brighter future.
The Origins of World Thinking Day
The idea for World Thinking Day was born in 1926 during the 4th World Conference of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts held at Camp Edith Macy in New York. Delegates envisioned a day for members to reflect on their global sisterhood and consider ways to make a positive impact. February 22 was chosen as it marks the birthdays of Lord Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Scouting movement, and his wife Lady Olave Baden-Powell, who played a pivotal role as the first World Chief Guide.
Initially called “Thinking Day,” the name was changed to World Thinking Day in 1999 to emphasize its international significance. Over time, it has evolved into a platform for addressing pressing global issues such as poverty, gender inequality, education access, and environmental sustainability.
Theme for 2025: “Our Story”
This year’s theme focuses on storytelling as a tool for connection and change. It encourages Girl Guides and Girl Scouts to:
- Reflect on their personal journeys within the movement.
- Share stories that highlight how guiding or scouting has shaped their lives.
- Explore the rich history of their organization across cultures.
- Strengthen international friendships by learning from one another’s experiences.
By understanding their past and sharing their stories, participants are inspired to take collective action toward building a better future.
How is World Thinking Day Celebrated?
World Thinking Day is marked by various activities that promote learning, unity, and social impact. Key celebrations include:
- Storytelling Events
Members share personal experiences about how guiding or scouting has influenced their lives. These stories are shared through videos, blogs, or local events to inspire others. - International Friendship Activities
Events such as virtual meet-ups with members from other countries or cultural exchange programs foster global connections. Participants often write letters or postcards to Guides and Scouts abroad. - Community Service Projects
The day serves as an opportunity for youth to take action on important issues like climate change, gender equality, or education. Many groups organize fundraisers or volunteer for local causes. - Fundraising for Global Initiatives
Donations collected during World Thinking Day support projects that empower girls in underprivileged regions. Contributions go toward leadership training programs and community development initiatives. - Earning the World Thinking Day Badge
Members complete educational challenges related to the year’s theme using resources provided by WAGGGS (World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts). These activities help participants develop new skills while earning recognition.
The Impact of World Thinking Day
World Thinking Day highlights the power of collective action among young people. It reminds participants that:
- Guiding and scouting create a worldwide sisterhood rooted in shared values.
- Youth have the potential to address global challenges through collaboration.
- Storytelling can inspire change by connecting communities across borders.
The funds raised during this day help sustain programs that empower girls worldwide by providing resources for education and leadership development.
Why It Matters Today
As digital platforms connect people globally like never before, World Thinking Day serves as a reminder of our shared humanity. By reflecting on their journeys within the movement and addressing critical issues facing society today, young people are empowered to become changemakers in their communities.
This year’s theme“Our Story” is not just about looking back; it’s about using lessons from the past to shape a better future. Through storytelling, reflection, and action, World Thinking Day continues to inspire generations of young leaders dedicated to making a difference in the world.
