Dear Supporters,
A Happy New Year to you all! We begin 2025 with renewed commitment to seeing Compass 2032 fully implemented in Trinidad and Tobago, building on the momentum you helped create in 2024. With each signature, you have strengthened our collective voice for meaningful change within our Movement.
While our public communications have been quiet during the Christmas season, our work continues advancing this important initiative. Through word-of-mouth and targeted outreach to established networks alone - without broad publicity - our petition has gathered over 300 signatures, demonstrating the depth of support for implementing Compass 2032 in Trinidad & Tobago.
Submission of Formal Letter and GGATT Response
On November 28th, we submitted a formal letter to the GGATT Executive Committee requesting a meeting to discuss the concerns detailed in our petition. The President of GGATT Mrs. Carolyn Seepersad-Bachan has responded, acknowledging these concerns and agreeing to meet with parents and leaders to explore solutions. She also requested that her response be shared with the full membership. However, many Guiders have reported not receiving this communication, underscoring the ongoing challenges with transparency and consistent information sharing that our petition seeks to address.
In our communication with current GGATT leadership, we expressed serious concern about potential retaliation against those who have supported this initiative. We understand that members and supporters at all levels who speak up for change may face institutional consequences. The Executive Committee's formal acknowledgment that members have the right to express their concerns without fear of reprisal is now part of the official record. The Collective expects that both current and future leadership will honour this fundamental WAGGGS principle of protecting open dialogue within our Movement.
Regional Response and Our Continued Commitment
Our petition also prompted an unexpected regional-level response, with WAGGGS' Western Hemisphere Regional Committee issuing a statement about GGATT's international program participation even before any stakeholder dialogue occurred. This choice to pursue regional intervention rather than direct engagement, alongside the narrow focus on international activities rather than fundamental concerns about equity, governance, and implementation, exemplifies the systemic issues our petition aims to address. Despite this development, we remained committed to constructive, good-faith engagement with GGATT leadership to achieve the comprehensive reforms our girls need.
Our position remains clear: GGATT is obligated to fully implement Compass 2032 and to create an organisation where every girl can thrive. This requires addressing all seven areas outlined in our petition, from governance modernization to equitable access to opportunities.
Next Steps
- We are proceeding with arrangements for stakeholder meetings with GGATT leadership
- We continue gathering impact stories from current and former members
How You Can Continue to Help
- Share the petition with others who care about the development of girls and young women
- Send your Girl Guiding impact story to us at ttgirlguides2032@gmail.com
We remain committed to advocating for all members who have courageously voiced their concerns while working toward meaningful reform. Your support has already created momentum for change. We will keep you informed as we move forward with these crucial discussions.
Thank you for standing with us,
Future Girl Guides Collective TT