The Ponta Delgada Municipal Council has approved a vote of congratulation for the Guides of Portugal Association on its 95th anniversary. The institution is recognized for its work in training successive generations of girls and young women through non-formal education, promotion of values, and encouragement of active community participation.
The milestone was marked by the opening of the Commemorative Exhibition of the 95 Years of the Guides of Portugal Association in the historic center of Ponta Delgada. The initiative, promoted by the Azores Region of the Association, is part of national commemorations taking place throughout 2026.
The choice of the International Day of the Girl for the exhibition opening reinforced the link between this celebration and the principles of Guiding, particularly the promotion of autonomy, confidence, leadership, and civic participation among girls and young women.
In the municipality of Ponta Delgada, the Guides of Portugal Association has a historical presence through the 1st Company of Ponta Delgada and the 2nd Company of Fajã de Cima. Both have contributed to the movement's continuity and its connection to local communities, promoting values such as responsibility, respect for others, teamwork, mutual aid, and a spirit of service.
The participation of the Guides in community life is also evident in their collaboration on initiatives and events promoted by the Municipality, with particular emphasis on the Great Festivities of the Divine Holy Spirit, moments of great significance for the identity and traditions of São Miguel.
“"Over 95 years, the Guides of Portugal Association has contributed to the formation of more autonomous, responsible, and participatory girls and young women, through work based on education for values, citizenship, and a spirit of service."
“"The journey of the Guides in the municipality of Ponta Delgada deserves the Municipality's recognition, not only for the continuity of the work developed by its companies but also for the contribution they make to the community, through volunteering, participation in local initiatives, and the valorization of our traditions."
Throughout these nine and a half decades, the Association's journey has been built with the commitment of leaders, Guides, families, and the community, who have ensured the continuity of a movement dedicated to the formation of new generations and the development of essential skills for conscious and active participation in society.
For the Ponta Delgada Municipal Council, the commemoration of the 95th anniversary of the Guides of Portugal Association is an opportunity to value youth associativism and recognize the role of guiding movements in forming conscious, supportive citizens committed to building the common good.
