The local Brownie community play such an active role in the local area, and inspire so many young girls to achieve from a very young age. Yet what about those who lead these girls? From the local South Woodford brownies, I decided to interview Ellen Madhani, a young Brownie leader to find out just what the job of being a leader entails.
 

Why did you want to be a Young Leader?
I have always enjoyed working with children and I felt that by being a brownie leader this would enable me to give something back to the community. Also, as my job is voluntary, it provides me with a different type of work experience that I wouldn’t normally get elsewhere.
 

What do you enjoy most about being a Young Brownie Leader?
I enjoy seeing the children grow up - the girls start at age 7 and often don’t leave until they are 10/11. It’s really rewarding knowing that you’ve contributed to their social development over that period of time.

What skills are required to be a Brownie Leader?
You have to be a good role model by setting a good example of how to behave and treat others because the girls really look up to you. It’s all very well having fun with the Brownies but at the same time you have to be firm and in control when there is a problem. It’s a big responsibility; you have to be energetic, yet patient, sensible and understanding at times as well.

How do you fit in being a Brownie Leader with all your other extra-curricular activities and school work?It only really involves an hour and a half every Friday night, with the occasional extra few hours on a Saturday here and there. Other than that there’s very little to attend to as a Young Leader but regular and reliable attendance is key. In terms of fitting it in with a social life, I am easily able to go out afterwards so long as everything is in order. The most important thing is to be organised about it all.

What would your advice be to other people wanting to be a Brownie Leader?
Get involved! It’s brilliant if you want to go into teaching or another job related to children in the future. Lots of people also help out at the pack for a 6 month period as a contribution to their Duke of Edinburgh award. It’s also very common that people who are Young Leaders were Brownies themselves so it’s really worthwhile! So long as you’re keen and organised, you should definitely join!