One of Girl Guides of Canada’s highest honours has gone to a teenager from Prince Edward County.

Pathfinder Persephone Howard of Waupoos was recently awarded The Canada Cord. The highest award a Pathfinder (ages 12-14) can achieve, it is presented upon advancement to highest Guiding level, Rangers.

The award encourages recipients to meet new people, learn more about themselves and their abilities, and put their leadership skills into action.

Persephone received the Canada Cord at the 1st Picton Girl Guides Advancement Ceremony on May 22 at Picton United Church. To earn a Canada Cord, a Pathfinder must complete three services in three areas.  Persephone, 15, volunteers with youth programs at the local library, planned a unit camp, participates in local theatre groups, and organized an environmental cleanup. 

“This is the first Canada Cord awarded since we reopened the unit seven years ago,” said lead Guider Laura Bryan.

“I’m most proud of earning my Canada Cord Award and all of my Pathfinders badges,” said the new Ranger.

Her international service project involved collecting eclipse glasses and was very successful, gathering several hundred pairs for the Astronomers Without Borders.

When asked if she had any advice for other girls thinking of joining Guides, “Just do it,” she said. “Girl Guides is really welcoming and has a lot of fun activities. You’ll have an opportunity to meet new friends and challenge yourself.”