Gabrielle Esprit : A historical win for Girl Guides

On February 23, 2025, 14-year-old Gabrielle Esprit achieved a milestone when she was crowned Miss Teen Dominica 2025. This event took place at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium, where Gabrielle stood out among four other contestants for the coveted title. What makes her victory even more special, is that she is the first contestant to represent the Girl Guides Association of Dominica (GGAD) in the Miss Teen Dominica pageant, bringing some fantastic attention to the organization.

Gabrielle, a proud member of the 1st Mahaut Guide Unit, truly shone throughout the competition, says a press release by the organization. She impressed both the judges and the audience with her talent, confidence, intelligence, and commitment, winning an impressive six out of seven judged titles. Her accolades included Best in Spectacular Wear, Best Talent, Best in Evening Wear, and the Best Response to Question. Her fellow Girl Guides are bursting with pride for her outstanding achievements!

Before this exciting moment, Gabrielle had already claimed the title of “Miss Noel” back in December 2024, a pageant held every two years by the Girl Guides. Winning that title boosted her confidence as she prepared for the Miss Teen pageant. Gabrielle was reportedly determined to use this experience to empower other young girls who might struggle with self-doubt. She actively promoted the Girl Guides and shared her personal journey, encouraging other girls and their parents to get involved in the organization.

Gabrielle passionately spoke about how the Girl Guides serve as a positive and nurturing space for girls to build essential life and social skills. In partnership with her sponsor, Black Island Girl, she created videos such as “What it Means to be a Guide” and “How Does One Become a Girl Guide?” For anyone interested in joining, more information can be found on her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/GabrielleEsprit, and on the GGAD’s page at https://www.facebook.com/GGADominica.

Gabrielle’s win is more than a personal triumph; it highlights the important role the Girl Guides play in helping young girls become confident leaders. The association aims to be a vibrant presence for girls and women in Dominica, focusing on their spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental development.

The Girl Guides Association of Dominica has a rich legacy that stretches back to the early 20th century and is part of the global Girl Guides and Girl Scouts movement. The movement began in Dominica in 1929, inspired by the founding work of Lord Robert Baden-Powell and his wife, Agnes. Local leaders like Alice Honeychurch and Annie McIntyre were pivotal in establishing Guide units across the island. Over the years, the organization has expanded, allowing more girls to experience its benefits.

Affiliated with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), the GGAD has been involved in various community initiatives, disaster responses, environmental projects, and leadership training. Their efforts support girls in becoming self-reliant, team-oriented leaders. The association also organizes national and regional camps and community development projects, emphasizing the importance of their role in empowering young girls to contribute responsibly to society.

The Girl Guides’ focus on recruiting and training leaders ensures that volunteers can effectively support and mentor the girls in their journey toward personal growth and community service. In short, the GGAD is dedicated to nurturing the future generation of young women ready to engage in national development.

The leadership of the Girl Guides states that it is thrilled about Gabrielle’s achievements and the recognition it brings to the organization. They eagerly anticipate how this victory at the Miss Teen Dominica pageant will shine a light on the valuable experiences the Girl Guides offer, concluded the press release.