In line with its strategy of educating and upskilling its young members aged 12 years and above, currently at home during the physical distancing period, Sharjah Girl Guides (SGG) held two virtual workshops in June to introduce them to the craft of baking, as well as work on their personal development by learning to boost their understanding of their emotions.

Guides (12 – 15 years) and Senior Guides (16 – 18 years) participated in the workshops that were specially designed to impart essential life skills and sought to engage the girls in productive activity that also boosted their confidence and emotional intelligence.

In the bakery workshop titled ‘Berry cake in collaboration with Tajrubahwith Chef Abeer’, Chef Abeer took 20 guides who had signed up for the session through the paces of baking a berry cake. The guides were informed about the ingredients required prior to the session which was held via the Zoom App.

Taking a fun approach to cooking, Chef Abeer first taught them the basics of baking a cake, guiding them through the process and gently correcting them when they made a mistake. After the cakes were baked, she guided the girls through the final step – artfully decorating them with berries. All participants earned an Art Badge at the conclusion of the workshop.

In ‘Exploring Emotions’, a psychology workshop for guides and senior guides led by Clinical psychologist, DHA licensedShamma Al Hamrani, eight members participated in an online  group therapy session to develop awareness about the importance of emotional intelligence, and how emotions can affect us negatively if they are not processed in a healthy manner.

The girl guides were taught how to balance their emotions and learnt how to use emotions to their advantage in real life situations. The participants earned a Personal Development badge as well as a Social Skills sub-badge.

These activities were a part of SGG’s June programme to ensure that its members stay active and engaged in the safety and comfort of their homes and teach them new skills as well as important life lessons across many fields.

Operating under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA), SGG aims to inspire and nurture future generations to become progressive citizens who can develop themselves and build a better world by providing the girls with a platform to develop to their fullest potential.